Described are the provisions of U.S. Public Law 99-457 (Education of the Handicapped Act Amendments, 1986), which authorizes early intervention services for handicapped infants, toddlers, and preschoolers and their families. Specific components of the law are detailed, followed by implications for families, service providers, and early childhood…

In this publication, six critical components of successful truancy intervention programs have been identified. Each component is discussed based on the research as well as practical considerations. Several program examples are provided at the end of each discussion. Approaches employed by these examples are designated model programs, promising…

This report discusses the outcomes of a project designed to help young children with special needs and their families prepare for and adjust to new service settings. The Bridging Early Service Transition (BEST) Project has helped administrators, service providers, and families plan and coordinate transitions for young children with disabilities or…

This book presents the findings of 12 years of research. The data gathered and analyzed from almost 700 samples of children's' graphics show how powerful patterns of cognition (schema) in the early years of development gradually evolves into recognizable forms of writing and mathematics. The goal was to chart the progress of children's thinking…

A rationale for including a leisure time activities curriculum component in educational programing for severely handicapped individuals is presented. The importance of play and the constructive use of leisure time is described through the use of a model demonstration project. (JN)

A family-oriented clinical simulation for training physical therapists is described and compared to other role-playing techniques. Advantages, disadvantages, and potential contributions to the student's professional growth are discussed. (SK)

A program for teaching sex education in the schools, using public health and school nurses with teacher and parental cooperation is described, including program objectives, methodology, presentation, and course content. (JMF)

Describes a six-month experimental library program carried out in Venezuela that sought to develop a home alternative to regular preschool education by providing parents and other adults in the family with the means of teaching children academic and problem-solving skills required by school. (Author/JD)

Presents historical background on family participation in early care/education programs. Highlights the vision and activities of four Wisconsin Early Childhood Centers for Excellence offering family-centered services with services to young children. Illustrates various strategies used to empower parents and strengthen bonds between parents and…

Notes that inclusive education is central to contemporary discourse on special needs education. Examines difficulties in allowing the concept to be a key organizing principle for educational provision. Argues that setting aside preoccupation with inclusion would result in a clearer focus on core educational values and student learning and…

Reviews strategies and techniques to enhance prosocial development. Suggests ways for involving whole classrooms, entire school systems, parents, and communities in creating classroom and home climates for prosocial expectations and learner support. Gives specific activities, strategies, guidelines, and resources. (ET)

Describes year-long "Container-of-the-Month" project, around which a number of second-grade class lessons and activities revolved. These included art, communicating through displays, oral and written reports, and family-oriented homework. (ET)

Involving families in the education of a child with a disability is beneficial to all concerned. Unfortunately, initiating and sustaining that involvement is often difficult, particularly in rural communities. A rationale for and challenges to family involvement are briefly reviewed. Twenty-one effective practical strategies for involving rural…

A 14-year-old girl with blindness who lived in an isolated religious community in northern British Columbia (Canada) was successfully integrated into the public school system. Four critical issues in planning for integration included family information and involvement, community awareness, empowerment of the individual, and opportunities for…

The University of Vermont offers an introductory undergraduate course in developmental disabilities based on the support model of services. Parents and individuals with developmental disabilities play a major role in planning and team teaching the course. The course emphasizes a family-centered philosophy, respect for individuals with…