The article describes three preschool units for children with special educational needs and considers the problems in integrating them into the mainstream. They note that true integration must include involvement of parents and collaboration with teachers. (CL)

The article examines clinical issues that must be considered in planning preschool language intervention aimed at integrating pragmatic theory into the treatment plan. The clinician's role in the process is examined, and solutions to problems in meeting individual needs within a group and being accountable are offered. (CL)

A review of research on early writing development in preschool and elementary children touches on intentionality, generativeness, risk-taking, writing workshops and conferencing as a teaching strategy. (CL)

Four examples of general language performance measures for preschoolers are described to suggest a rationale for test selection. Advantages and limitations are noted for the Houston Test for Language Development, Preschool Language Scale, the Hannah-Gardner Preschool Language Screening Test, and the Test of Early Language Development. (CL)

Findings indicated that the importance of effective transition was recognized and that transition procedures were written into many programs, but were not followed in practice. Journal availability: see EC 133 846. (Author)

This article presents ideas for using play activities to support the development of emergent literacy skills in young children, including those with disabilities. Four principles of promoting early literacy skills are explained and applied to activities in block and microsymbolic play, macrosymbolic play, and fluid construction play. The…

Advocates for safer playgrounds need to make informed decisions when purchasing play equipment and designing play areas. This updated document provides safety and design criteria in the form of model law provisions that can be used by those responsible for playground development. It reports on injury data which establish common injury scenarios…

Ten guidelines for establishing preschool programs in the public schools are discussed in terms of premises and suggestions. It is asserted that public school-based programs for black, preschool-age children should: (1) incorporate an effective parent education program; (2) involve parents in decisions about curriculum and policy; (3) include…

The document is intended to establish criteria for preschool services so that a handicapped child qualifying for services in one area of the state (Iowa) will qualify for those same services in another geographic area. An initial section examines the state's philosophical commitment to handicapped children. A subsequent section addresses the…

To identify gifted preschool children, parents and teachers need to be aware of some of the characteristics that these children possess. Gifted preschool children may have verbal and mathematical abilities that are advanced beyond their years, show creativity and imagination, and have an excellent memory. They exhibit a high level of curiosity,…

Written by a kindergarten teacher in a school for blind children, the booklet is designed to give parents insights and guidelines to help prepare their visually handicapped child for school. Part I reviews characteristics of learning. Part II focuses on how children learn. A third section, which makes up most of the document, offers guidelines in…

This paper explores strategies by which adults can intervene in children's play activities. The five intervention strategies discussed focus on (1) time and space, (2) adult guidance, (3) play materials, (4) boundaries, and (5) roles. The first strategy involves providing time and space in daily schedules and environments for children to play. The…

The health care provider functioning in an organized preschool setting can play a vital role in the early identification of the gifted child. The health professional can make a unique contribution in this area as well as being alert for the potential health problems the child may have. (Author)

The paper argues that the poor predictive validity of many preschool screening tests can be traced to heavy reliance on traditional psychometric approaches. Both theory and data are presented to illustrate the efficacy of an approach featuring active cognitive development. (Author/CL)

The article describes a broadened definition of orientation and mobility as it relates to serving a diverse population of visually handicapped preschoolers, examines the relationship of orientation and mobility to other curriculum areas, and considers the importance of coordinated involvement between parents and professionals. (CL)