This publication is a guide to assist librarians in taking a proactive stance to include families of children with special needs in programs and services. The focus is on families with children up to age five, and covers the basic principles underlying inclusion, family-centered service, resource-based practice, and the provision of library…

These instructional materials are designed to improve the performance of paraeducators working in transitional services and supported employment for teenagers and young adults with disabilities. The competency-based program helps participants to learn skills they can apply immediately, to accept new practices, and to increase their understanding…

The Counselor to the U.S. Secretary of Education outlines eight education challenges: (1) safe and disciplined schools; (2) parent and family involvement; (3) a reading, literate society; (4) high standards and real accountability; (5) computers available to all children; (6) strong transition from school to work; (7) college accessibility; and…

Argues that early childhood educators must create partnerships between parents and teachers to facilitate parents' interest and support of their children's education, the most important determinant of success in school. Notes that successful partnerships begin with mutual respect, communication, understanding, cooperation, and provision of varied…

Discusses the teaching of children's rights in the Philippines. Suggests that the provisions of the U.N. Convention on the Rights of the Child remain ineffective if not disseminated in companion programs. Argues that no rights exist without obligations. Describes nongovernmental organization, broadcast media, and government programs. (DK)

Argues that white, upper-middle-class adolescents are particularly vulnerable to depression, suicide, alcohol/substance abuse, date rape, anxiety, low self-esteem, and eating disorders. Discusses lack of parental involvement and the difficulties wealthy youth have in developing inner resources. Recommends involving students in service projects and…

First-year outcomes are reported for Success for All--a program designed to bring all children to grade level in basic skills by the third grade. The program uses one-to-one tutoring, reading methods, frequent assessment, enhanced preschool and kindergarten programs, family support, and other interventions to prevent learning problems from…

Five families participating in the Vermont Rural Autism Project (VT-RAP) assessment process were interviewed. An overall theme of shifting attitudes emerged as well as 3 sub-themes: getting enrolled, becoming friends, and empowerment and transformation. All parents reported having a unique and meaningful experience of involvement in their child's…

A survey of 258 North Carolina families with children (ages 3 to 12) having emotional disturbances focused on: (1) the wide range of characteristics of the child, family, and community; (2) characteristics that families bring to their situation as well as characteristics that can be changed by experience and the use of resources and services; and…

This guide presents suggestions to minimize adjustment problems for young children with delays and disabilities as they begin preschool. Strategies to ease the transition from early intervention programs to the preschool focus on: beginning early, talking about the new setting in positive ways, encouraging the child to ask questions and express…

Parent involvement in their children's schooling results in improved student performance, attitudes, and self-concepts, along with decreased dropout, suspension, and absenteeism rates. Increased involvement also provides necessary community feedback to the school, encourages positive parent-teacher-student relations, and creates a more informed…

The theme issue of this bulletin is a discussion of youth with emotional disturbances who are in the juvenile justice system and how to meet their needs. Articles include: (1) "Responding to the Mental Health Needs of Youth in the Juvenile Justice System" (Susan Rotenberg); (2) "Prevalence of Mental Disorders among Youth in the…

This paper reports on the perceptions of West Virginia teachers and administrators regarding the effectiveness of individual education plans (IEPs) in guiding discipline decisions for students with disabilities. Telephone interviews were conducted with 141 regular and special education teachers and administrators in all 55 West Virginia counties.…

This study examined the assessment and prescriptive practices used in augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) efforts throughout the country. Project Directors (N=50) of projects funded under the Technology-Related Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities Act were surveyed. The survey instrument was designed to assess Project…

The shortage of qualified special educators in Louisiana is critical, particularly in rural areas. Factors contributing to this shortage include low teacher salaries, reduction of tuition exemption for teachers taking certification courses, and higher tuition costs. University training programs must assist teachers in developing necessary…