We can help you understand your child’s IEP in plain language, identify your concerns, and help you understand your options for next steps. We help parents understand the IEP process and how to navigate it.  Our goal is to help parents become as equipped as possible to advocate on behalf of their child. 

We get how challenging it can be. Those of us who help families with IEPs have been through the IEP process ourselves, with our own children. So in addition to the hours of professional training on IEP process and best practices, we understand the parent perspective. We are not “educational advocates” or legal experts — we are parents supporting other parents.

EFRC is the CA Early Start Point of Entry for families in San Diego and Imperial Counties. If your child is under age 3, and you have concerns about their development, you will talk to one of our team members during the Early Start initial intake for your child.

We also help parents and caregivers understand how Regional Center works and how to navigate it. We can explain the difference between traditional services and self-determination — and give you plain language explanations.

Please note that eligibility determinations for services are always made by Regional Center — not by EFRC. We have no input into that process whatsoever. Our job is to help you become informed and knowledgable so that you can be the best parent advocate you can be.

Oh boy. What do those acronyms mean again? What kind of support is available? Who is eligible? We can talk through the different service systems and explore whether it could be a good fit for your family. We’ll translate systems speak into plain language so you can be informed and aware of what’s out there. We can also talk through how to apply.

Each service system has its own eligibility criteria, selection process, and ongoing requirements. We can’t control the outcome. But what we can do is ensure that you are well informed and supported every step of the way. 

We can help you find resources in our community! We are a resource center.

EFRC offers community programs to benefit families of children and adults with disabilities across San Diego and Imperial County, and across the lifespan.

If we don’t have what you are looking for, we can help you explore programs and services in our broader community — like childcare, recreation opportunities, and learning events. We can also make referrals to other agencies, depending on your unique needs

This journey can feel isolating, it’s true. The appointments, interventions, and activities can keep you busy. And — it’s hard to find other parents who can relate. Whether your child has behavioral differences that make ordinary playdates difficult, or you just can’t relate to the usual parent small talk — we get it. 

But you’re not alone. We help parents connect with other families like yours. Through our own programs and our efforts to bridge families to outside resources,  we help you find your people. We can celebrate the victories and support one another through the challenges — together. 

We can also help you navigate your existing relationships with family and friends — and  broader community participation. 

We have a variety of formats for you to get the support you need. We have 1:1 appointments via phone, Zoom, or in-person; Parent Hours where you can drop in and ask questions; virtual workshops on topics of interest to parents — and in-person events where you can get live support or training from our staff.