Key Points of IDEA ( Individual s with Disabilities Education Act) First reauthorized in 1991 under President Bush (the father) Reauthorized again in 1997, and 2004 Funded by Congress Funded for children birth to 21 yrs. Made services for 3-5 yr. olds required rather than optional Formalized “inclusiveness” defined as “the active participation of young children with disabilities in settings with typically developing children” Promotes the principle of “the natural environment”- children should receive intervention services where the child naturally would be

Key Points of IDEA Local public education agencies (LEA) must ensure that all children who need special education and related services are identified. Parental rights (access to all records, challenge placement, free and appropriate education (FAPE)) Comprehensive, multi-disciplinary assessments can be performed annually if needs change, and at least every 3 years UNLESS the parents and LEA agree it is not necessary. An IEP must be written, and parents must be included (unless they waive the right). IEPs are reviewed at least annually. To the MAXIMUM extent possible, children with disabilities MUST be educated with their nondisabled peers (LRE).

Key Points to No Child Left Behind Enacted in 2001 Primary goal: every child reading by 3 rd grade School accountability through Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) IDEA 2004 called for states to establish goals aligned with NCLB As a result- strengthening of Head Start, federal-state partnership to promote early childhood programs, disseminatation of info on current practices and research to early childhood professionals

Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) Antidiscrimination LAW Very simply, this law requires public and private schools (including preschools) to provide accommodations for students with disabilities, including modified programs and assistive technology

Factors Affecting Development Maternal age Number of previous pregnancies Paternal factors Maternal nutrition Exposure to toxins during pregnancy Substance/alcohol abuse Maternal illness Maternal infections Maternal emotional state Blood incompatibility Genetic abnormalities Prematurity and low birth weight

What is Failure to Thrive (FTT)? A term used to describe children whose physical growth over time is inadequate when compared to a standard growth chart. Children are less likely than typical peers to have secure attachments Children are more likely to show disorganized and anxious attachments

Which 2 categories serve the highest number of children? Developmental delay Speech/language delay

What is the Council for Exceptional Children? Largest professional organization dedicated to improving the educational success for all exceptional children (disabilities-gifted) Services provided: – Professional development opportunities and resources – Journals/newsletters with research, dev. app. Practices, federal legislation and policies – Conventions/conferences

What is NECTAC? National Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center Supported by US. DOE OSEP Provides technical assistance to all Part C and Part B coordinators in all 50 states to improve service systems and outcomes for children and families. Web site is just ONE of many services