This guidebook is designed to provide information on technology to teachers and service providers who work with children with special needs. It may also be helpful for parents and caregivers of young children. Topics include: (1) the definition of assistive technology; (2) the philosophy of using technology with young children and a rationale that demonstrates benefits for youngsters who have special needs; (3) how technology supports early learning, particularly self-expression, communication, social interactions, and education; (4) assessing for helpful technology; (5) identifying the tools of assistive technology; (6) team tasks in assessment; (7) choosing computer technology for the classroom, including selecting appropriate software and peripheral devices; (8) introducing other devices such as a trackball, mouse keys, touch screen, drawing tablets, and electronic pointing devices; (9) keyboard modifications and alternative keyboards; (10) switch technology; (11) augmentative and alternative communication; (12) effective practices for teaching children to communicate; (13) integrating technology into the early childhood classroom, including how to design lessons with technology; (14) how to use technology for teachers' administrative tasks; (15) assistive technology in a cultural context; (16) assistive technology in the Individualized Education Program or the Individualized Family Service Plan; and (17) funding issues. Appendices include teacher resources, an explanation of legal issues, and a list of resource organizations. (Contains 32 references.) (CR)