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How do I request assessment for special education services if my child turns 3 over the summer?


Published: Sep. 15, 2025Updated: Sep. 15, 2025

If your child is receiving early intervention services under IDEA Part B, ask your service coordinator for a Part C assessment, and they should start the transition process with the school district 90 days before your child's third birthday. (In California, this will be your Regional Center or SELPA service coordinator.)

You can also contact the school district in May before the end of the school year so that they can start the assessment process. During the summer, most school district offices are open during ESY in July and open again early August. You just need to contact the special education department at the school district.

For more information, see our article Choosing a Preschool and Preparing for Your Child's First IEP.

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Transition from Early Start to preschool IEP
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3 tasks
Early intervention services end at age 3, at which point your local school district will assume responsibility for providing services. Work with your Early Start service coordinator to make a smooth transition between early intervention and your first preschool IEP.
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