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What Happens When the Child Turns Age 3?
 As the child with fragile X nears the age of 3, parents and professionals must be sure
the IFSP addresses a transition plan. Children become eligible for early childhood education or move into preschool programs at age three. New evaluations must be
completed to help make decisions regarding most appropriate placement, but the existing IFSP can be used for goal setting, if the parents agree. At the time of this
transition, families need to explore and visit the options available. School systems may offer a variety of services for preschoolers with special needs. They may offer
some special education within a regular preschool class. They may also have early childhood special education classes, where all of the children have some type of
developmental delay or disability. For the child with fragile X, parents need to look at the setting, services, and personnel involved in the early childhood program.
Multidisciplinary services offered in a structured, calm setting, with an established routine, many visual cues, and provision for calming places and activities are all important for the preschooler with fragile X.
Gail Harris-Schmidt, Ph.D., CCC-SLP
Saint Xavier University
Chicago, Illinois
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