Be part of the circle of support. Become a Surrogate Parent for Family Centered Early Supports & Services
For infants and toddlers who have, or are at risk of having, a developmental delay or disability, state and federal law requires that parents/guardians be included in the Family-Centered Early Supports and Services (FCESS) decision-making process. However, children whose parents are unknown or unavailable need someone to fill this vital role. Surrogate Parents (SPs) help to ensure these children have what they need for a strong start in development.
Family Centered Early Supports and Services (FCESS) is New Hampshire’s Early Intervention System, also known as NH’s Part C program. FCESS serves children birth to three years who have a developmental delay, an established condition or are at substantial risk for a developmental delay. The goal of FCESS is to support families in helping their children grow and develop, including helping families achieve their own family goals.
SPs for FCESS represent a child’s developmental needs and rights to services just as biological parents would. They make decisions regarding the child’s goals, services, progress and needs as they relate to FCESS. In addition SPs for FCESS:
- Actively participate and collaborate in all IFSP meetings
- Communicate with FCESS program staff on an on-going basis regarding the child’s needs, progress and any concerns
- When possible, participate in the Intake Meeting with the Foster Parent/Family
- Observe FCESS eligibility evaluations
- If the child is found potentially eligible, provide consent for supporting documentation to be sent to the LEA with the referral to Special Education
- Maintain confidentiality as required by HIPPA
Individuals interested in becoming an SP for FCESS must be at least 21 years of age and:
- have either personal or work experience with young children
- demonstrate a vested interest in supporting the development and education of young children with or at risk of for developmental delays
You will also need to complete an application process. As part of the application process, you must:
- provide 3 positive references and
- complete a background check
If accepted into the training program, you will also need to:
- actively engage in online, virtual and in-person training activities
- agree in writing to
- identify and abstain from conflicts of interest
- protect the confidentiality of the child
- act in the best interest of the child to protect their right to receive FCESS
- serve as the ESP from the date of assignment until the date of termination or 30 days after you notify your wish to terminate the appointment
Current SPs for FCESS tell us that they spend an average of 8-10 hours per year volunteering for each child they represent.
Because stability and continuity are critical for the infants and toddlers SPs for FCESS represent, SPs are asked to commit to representing a child until they are determined to no longer require an SP, no eligible for FCESS or until their 3rd birthday, whichever comes first.
SPs determine whether or not they wish to represent more than one child at a time and how far, if at all, they will travel for an IFSP meetings. While in-person attendance is encouraged, virtual meetings are always an option.
The SP for FCESS Training Program includes seven independent, on-line learning modules and and a virtual 4 hour Zoom session. Each on-line learning module includes a quiz that must be completed.
SP for FCESS Pilot Information
- Zoom Session ~ Saturday, May 13, 2023 9:00 am – 1:30 pm (includes breaks)
- Access to the online modules by April 12, 2023
The process starts by completing an on-line application, and providing references. You can start the application HERE.
“I’ve seen what’s possible through FCESS when a strong advocate is involved. It’s an incredible experience to see the progress they make. I want to make sure all infants and toddlers have someone looking out for them so they can reach their fullest potential.”
“Using my experience as a parent of children with disabilities allows me to help our most vulnerable kids get a solid start!”