Part C Evaluation and Assessment

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) requires States to evaluate infants and toddlers referred to the IDEA program for infants and toddlers with disabilities (Part C) if they are suspected of having a possible developmental delay or disability. States must conduct evaluations to determine eligibility for Part C, and for those children found eligible, conduct a child and family assessment to identify the unique strengths and needs of the child and family. The evaluation and assessment tools a State uses, and its policies and procedures to engage and support families through the evaluation and assessment process, play a critical role in determining which children and families receive services under Part C.