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There's a moment a lot of EI families describe the same way. Their child's third birthday is on the horizon, services are about to end, and someone hands them a packet about the IEP process. And the feeling isn't relief that they made it through early intervention. It's more like: wait, now what?
I hear this constantly from families. The transition out of early intervention is one of the most confusing moments in the whole therapy journey — and no one really prepares you for it. So let's talk about what actually happens in New Hampshire.
The shift from IFSP to IEP
In New Hampshire, early intervention is called Family Centered Early Supports and Services, or FCESS — a parent coaching model run by the Department of Health and Human Services. Services are built around supporting you to support your child in everyday routines. FCESS ends on your child's third birthday, and transition planning begins no later than when your child turns two.
What the transition process looks like
Your FCESS service coordinator initiates transition planning before your child's second birthday. With your consent, they connect you with your local school district, which evaluates your child for Part B eligibility. Not all children who receive FCESS qualify for preschool special education — some may transition to community-based services, outpatient therapy, or other options.
The key word is "if." Eligibility for school-based services is evaluated differently than EI eligibility. If your child doesn't qualify, you're not without options — but you may need to look outside the school system.
What school-based services look like after the transition
Services shift to a school or center-based setting. The home visits, the therapist who knew your kitchen floor and your child's favorite toys — that model changes. Session frequency is often lower. The focus moves from family routines to school readiness.
What happens if your child doesn't qualify, or if the services aren't enough
The IEP process is not the end of the road. At Coral Care, we work with New Hampshire families who are bridging the gap, supplementing an IEP, or continuing in-home therapy as their primary service.
A few things to know
New Hampshire requires written parental consent at each step of the special education process. The Parent Information Center of NH (PIC) at picnh.org is a statewide family resource for navigating this. You are an equal partner — you can ask questions, request changes, and request an independent evaluation if you disagree with the school's findings. Keep copies of everything.
The birthday doesn't have to be a cliff
The third birthday is a transition, not an ending. If you're approaching this in New Hampshire and you're not sure what to do next, we're here to help.
Continue Your Child's Care with Coral Care →
Frequently asked questions
What is FCESS in New Hampshire?
FCESS stands for Family Centered Early Supports and Services — New Hampshire's early intervention program for children birth to age 3. It uses a parent coaching model, meaning services are designed to build your capacity to support your child's development in everyday routines. FCESS ends on your child's third birthday.
What happens when FCESS ends in New Hampshire?
FCESS ends on your child's third birthday. Transition planning begins before your child turns two. With your consent, your service coordinator connects you with your local school district for a Part B eligibility evaluation. If your child qualifies, an IEP is developed. If not, private therapy is available.
Does my child automatically qualify for an IEP after FCESS in New Hampshire?
No. School districts use different eligibility criteria than FCESS, and not all children who received early supports will qualify for preschool special education. New Hampshire requires written parental consent at each step of the special education process.
Where can I get help navigating the IEP process in New Hampshire?
The Parent Information Center of NH (PIC) at picnh.org is a statewide resource staffed by family advocates who can help you understand your rights, prepare for meetings, and navigate the special education system. Their services are free.
Can I get in-home therapy for my child in New Hampshire after FCESS ends?
Yes. Coral Care provides in-home speech therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy for children in New Hampshire. Many families use in-home therapy to continue the home-based model they had in FCESS, either as a supplement to school services or as a primary option.
