Part of a volume which explores current issues in service delivery to infants and toddlers (birth to age 3) with handicapping conditions, this chapter addresses the nature and challenges of effective administrative leadership of early intervention programs. Basic administrative tasks are identified, such as: building an early intervention team, creating an environment which supports families as members of the team, setting collaborative goals, and communicating goals to those who can effect their accomplishment. Elements of four administrative models (technical, human relations, political, and symbolic) are used as the basis for a multiple-model approach. Aspects of team building discussed in detail include extending team membership to families, multiagency representation on the team, interagency networking, creating a climate that supports change, systematic evaluation strategies, choosing team members, building professional skills, staff development, scheduling, family participation, goal setting, and communicating to a wider external audience. A checklist to determine readiness for team building, a team effectiveness rating scale, and a sample interview format for potential staff are included. (JW)