Understanding Early Childhood Special Education
Children ages 3–5 who are eligible for special education may receive Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) and related services through their local public school district.
ECSE services are based on each child’s individual needs as identified in their Individualized Education Program (IEP). Services may include specialized instruction, speech-language therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy or other supports.
Understanding Your Child’s IEP
If your child is found eligible for special education, you and the school team will develop an Individualized Education Program (IEP). The IEP describes your child’s needs, goals, services and supports and where those services will be provided.
Parents are equal members of the IEP team. You can share information about your child, ask questions, discuss concerns and invite others who know or support your child to participate in meetings.
Encircle Families offers trainings specifically for families to learn about the IEP process, understand their role on the IEP team and prepare to participate in their child’s education.
What Does Special Education Preschool Look Like?
Early childhood special education can look different from one child to another. Some children may receive services in a preschool classroom, while others may receive services in another early childhood setting. The setting, services and amount of support are determined by the IEP team based on the child’s individual needs.
Federal special education law requires children with disabilities to be educated with children without disabilities to the maximum extent appropriate. This is known as the least restrictive environment (LRE). For preschool-age children, the IEP team considers how the child can receive needed services while participating with children without disabilities when appropriate.
Learn More About Least Restrictive Environment (LRE)
Want to Understand How It All Fits Together?
Encircle Families’ Early Childhood Education – Birth to Kindergarten training covers early intervention, the transition at age 3, preschool special education and IEPs. Training is offered at no cost to families.