This brief paper summarizes principles of the Individual Family Service Plan (IFSP) as required under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, Part C. It lists five ways in which the IFSP differs from the Individualized Education Plan including the centrality of the family. Steps that lead to effective IFSPs are identified. These include: (1) identify family concerns, priorities, and resources; (2) identify the family's activity settings; (3) conduct a functional assessment; (4) collaboratively develop expected outcomes; (5) assign intervention responsibilities; and (6) identify strategies to implement the plan. The paper urges use of intervention strategies that help promote generalization of outcomes, target several outcomes during one activity, help a child become more independent in his/her world, and are provided within natural environments. Guidelines for conducting both ongoing and periodic evaluations of an early intervention program are also offered. (DB)