This book is intended to be a practical resource guide for professionals responsible for designing and implementing individualized early intervention programs for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers with special needs. Part I provides an introduction to the purpose and characteristics of a comprehensive, multidisciplinary assessment. Part II discusses basic considerations that should be given to: the examining situation, making qualitative observations of behavior, cultural diversity, the assessment of infants and young children (those with sensory or physical impairments) who require adaptation of materials or instruments, and family involvement in the assessment process. The stages in the assessment process are addressed in Part III. Normative and curriculum-based assessments are discussed, with examples of each type and recommendations for their use. Ecological and environmental assessments are considered, as are direct observation and informal assessment procedures. Program evaluation is also addressed. Part IV looks at assessment within key developmental domains including cognition, language, social-emotional, gross-motor and fine-motor skills, and self-help capabilities. Appendices list selected infant and preschool assessments and addresses of publishing companies. Individual chapters contain references. (DB)