IFSP teams are facing new challenges in defining their role and how they work with families. Carl Dunst describes a "rethinking" of early intervention and compares a traditional paradigm to a new paradigm for implementing early intervention. The new paradigm depicts a set of expected practices that are scientifically based and serve as the theoretical and conceptual framework for early intervention. We shifted from treatment models that focus on remediation of a disorder to promoting competence and positive functioning and from dependence on professional expertise to a capacity-building model that provides opportunities for children, families, and providers to use existing abilities and develop new skills. We no longer focus on correcting weaknesses or problems, but acknowledge the assets of infants, toddlers and their families and help them use these strengths to improve functioning. While professional services are important, there is a wide variety of formal and informal supports within a community. And, finally, we continue to move away from professional experts determining the needs of families, but rather serving as agents of families who are responsive to family desires and priorities.