Early Education Services for Children with Handicaps-Where Have We Been, Where Are We Now, and Where Are We Going?

Abstract

There have been many sweeping changes in early education for handicapped children during the last 30 years. This article describes some of the developments in service delivery, parent/family participation, staffing roles, training, and product development during that time. Evidence of effectiveness of early intervention programs and Information on the cost of providing services is presented. The impact and capability of some early childhood model projects is discussed. Information on the need for services for young handicapped children and the availability of services is presented and the outlook for the future considered.