Families play a key role in the successful implementation of the Early Steps service delivery system. Beginning at first contacts, families are provided with information on the purpose of early intervention: to enhance the capacity of families to meet their child's developmental needs. Families are also provided with information on what they can expect from Early Steps, as well as the important role families play as members of the team throughout the process. Once families have this information, they can make informed decisions in defining their particular role and involvement in Early Steps.
Ecomaps and Routines Based Interviews (RBI) are two tools that can be used during the LES' first contacts with the family to gather information, with the family's consent, about the child and family's support network, typical daily routines and activities, concerns, priorities, and resources. This information helps the Service Coordinator identify appropriate Individualized Family Support Plan (IFSP) team members, and helps the IFSP Team develop functional outcomes.