Early Childhood Special Education

Early Intervention (Birth to 2 years old)

Early Intervention services are provided to children and their family when the child has been found eligible based on a medical condition or delay in development, according to state criteria. These services occur at home within the child's natural setting and are often family-centered.

Services may be provided by an early childhood special education teacher, speech pathologist, occupational therapist, physical therapist and/or other providers based on eligibility and need.

Early Childhood Special Education (3 to 5 years old)

Special education services are provided to eligible children age 3 up to kindergarten entrance for those who meet special education state criteria.

These services are often delivered in a school setting and may be provided by an early childhood special education teacher, speech pathologist, occupational therapist, physical therapist and/or other providers based on eligibility and need. Most classes are 1½ to 2½ hours, 2-4 days per week.

Special education classes provide a focus on specific child needs, as related to preschool aged skills. Special education services may also occur within an integrated preschool classroom or in community based partnerships, such as Head Start of Washington County.