Early Steps Policies and Guidance
Florida’s Early Steps Program is part of the Individuals with Disabilities in Education Act (IDEA), Part C. For more information and guidance about Florida’s Early Steps Program, please review the Policy Handbook and Operations Guide.
Each year, Florida Early Steps’ policies are reviewed, and there is opportunity for public comment on the proposed policy updates and Part C application. Those announcements will be found here, as well as in the Florida Administrative Register (FAR), as applicable.
Notice – The 2026 Part C IDEA Grant Application Draft and Proposed Policy Amendments for 2026 have been posted, effective March 20, 2026. Public Hearings will be held on Monday, April 20th at 10:00 AM EST and Tuesday, April 21st at 2:00 PM EST, to allow for public participation.
The opportunity for public comment on the proposed policies and Part C Application will be available for 30 days after the public hearing, beginning April 20th, 2026, through May 20th, 2026. Comments will be accepted from the public, including parents of infants and toddlers with disabilities, providers of services, advocacy groups and organizations, as well as other stakeholders in the state. All public Comments must be directed to [email protected].
Draft FFY 2026 Florida Part C Application
2026 Proposed Policy Amendments Crosswalk
Early Steps Extended Option Annual Notice
Early Steps Extended Option Policy Draft
Policy Handbook
The Early Steps Policy Handbook outlines Federal and State program requirements, policies and procedures, and provides information on how and when to complete forms, letters, or other documentation.
Operations Guide
The Early Steps Operations Guide is supplemental to the Policy Handbook, and serves to explain how to implement a policy, outline steps, or recommend actions to support implementation.
