Trusted Resources for Families

Important Information to Have

Families of young children with disabilities depend on clear, reliable information about special education services and supports. The following organizations and programs provide trusted guidance and resources to assist families.

Illinois PUNS – Division of Developmental Disabilities
The Prioritization of Urgency of Need for Services (PUNS) database registers individuals who want or need Developmental Disability Waiver services, such as:

Community Integrated Living Arrangements
Home-Based Supports
Child Group Homes

Funded by the Illinois Department of Human Services/Division of Developmental Disabilities.

Illinois ABLE
IL ABLE “Achieving a Better Life Experience” Accounts give people with disabilities and their families greater financial independence while preserving benefits. A high-quality, low-cost IL ABLE savings and investment Account can be opened by an Eligible Individual, or Authorized Individual, at any time, no matter what state they live in.

ISBE – Special Education Parent/Guardian Information
The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) offers resources specifically for parents of students with disabilities. These tools help families:

Navigate the education system
Partner effectively with schools and districts
Advocate for their child’s needs

ARC of Illinois
For over 70 years, The Arc of Illinois has advocated alongside people with disabilities, families, and communities to ensure individuals with disabilities can live, work, learn, play, and thrive in inclusive communities across the state.

llinois Early Intervention Clearinghouse
Identifies and collects research-based, best-practice early intervention information to share with families. Resources are designed to support families with children ages birth to three who may need early intervention services.

Illinois Early Learning Project
The Illinois Early Learning Project (IEL) offers reliable, evidence-based information on early care and education for families, caregivers, and teachers of young children in Illinois. IEL provides short parenting videos and clear, one-page Tip Sheets on a wide range of topics, available in multiple languages. The project also helps families understand the Illinois Early Learning Standards for Preschool by breaking them down into practical, easy-to-use information that supports their children’s development.

Center for Parent Information and Resources
This national hub of information designed for state Parent Centers serving families of children with disabilities, CPIR provides user-friendly information on special education and disabilities, empowering families to navigate services and advocate for their children.

Tip: Bookmark these sites and check back often—resources are frequently updated to reflect new information, services, and supports.

Definitions & Acronyms

We know the world of early childhood education and special education is full of abbreviations. Here’s a quick guide to help you understand the most common terms you may see in STAR NET training and resources.

General Terms

IEP (Individualized Education Program)
A written plan that outlines special education and related services for a child with a disability, ages 3–21.

IFSP (Individualized Family Service Plan)
A plan for services and support for children under age 3 and their families through Early Intervention.

LRE (Least Restrictive Environment)
The setting where a child with a disability can learn alongside peers without disabilities, as much as possible.

IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act)
Federal law that ensures services to children with disabilities from birth through age 21.

504 Plan
A plan under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act that provides accommodations for students with disabilities to support access to learning.
Early Childhood Programs

EI (Early Intervention)
Services and support for infants and toddlers (birth to age 3) with developmental delays or disabilities.

ECSE (Early Childhood Special Education)
Special education services for preschool children (ages 3–5) with disabilities.

PFA (Preschool for All)
A state-funded preschool program in Illinois for 3- and 4-year-old children.

Blended Program
A preschool classroom that includes children in ECSE and PFA together.

Head Start
A federally funded program promoting school readiness for children birth to age 5 from low-income families.

B–3 (Birth to Three Programs)
Programs that support families with children under age 3 who may be at risk for developmental delays.
Support Roles

OT (Occupational Therapist)
Helps children build fine motor, daily living, and sensory regulation skills.

PT (Physical Therapist)
Supports children in building strength, balance, and gross motor skills.

SLP (Speech-Language Pathologist)
Assists with speech, language, and communication development.

Service Coordinator (EI)
Helps families in Early Intervention organize and access services.

Paraprofessional (Para)
Provides instructional and classroom support under a teacher’s guidance.
Assessment & Instruction

UDL (Universal Design for Learning)
An approach to teaching that gives all children equal opportunities to learn through flexible methods and supports.

Authentic Assessment
Observing and documenting children’s learning during everyday activities rather than through formal tests.

Differentiated Instruction
Adjusting teaching to meet the learning needs of each child.

Embedded Learning Opportunities
Teaching skills within natural daily routines and play.

Tip: If you come across an acronym or term you don’t know, don’t hesitate to ask a STAR NET team member — we’re here to help!

STAR NET REGION II AND VI FAMILY RESOURCES