Every year, the Family Outcomes Survey changes just a little bit. A few years ago, the survey was pared down from several pages to just one. Spanish translations appeared and last time (the survey is mailed out every two years), an online option was added.

The fifth version of the survey rolls out in July 2010 and this time, two questions have been added. The new additions focus on childcare for kids with disabilities who are less than three years old. The questions ask if they need the childcare. If so, are they able to get it and do they need help from early intervention services.

Also new this year is a follow-up postcard, sent out to people who haven’t completed and returned their surveys. This was designed to hopefully boost the survey’s 23% return rate. (The average return rate expected for most surveys is 20%)

Overall, the surveys tend to reflect positively on the services people get. Kate Green, a developmental specialist who has been working with Part C for 5 years, said that after hearing parents point out flaws, this was a bit of a surprise.

“Our suspicion is that even though parents are unhappy when they have to wait, once they get services, they’re satisfied,” Green said.

The surveys are expected to be completely collected in September. Then the data will be analyzed, which will be completed by the end of October.