To assist in implementing the requirements of Public Law 99-457, the Education of the Handicapped Ammendments, 1986, practical information is provided about 15 appropriate assessment instruments for use with visually handicapped children, ages birth through 5. Descriptive analyses of selected assessment instruments include the title, author(s), format, and comments regarding test content and administration. A review of ecological and nontest-based approaches (such as systematic observation and parent interviews) are presented, as well as unique considerations and assessment guidelines for this population. Criteria for selection of tests also are discussed. The paper also provides information on prevalence of visual handicap in this age group and the requirement of the law for assessment of developmental delay. (Author/DB)