Implementing early intervention

The passage of Public Law 99-457 mandates the creation of early intervention service delivery systems for infants, toddlers, and young children. In addition, the recent passage of Part H stresses interagency linkages, holistic services, and a shift to family-centered early intervention. While there is a clear need for reform in children's services, translating the mandates into effective practices poses a major challenge for practitioners and program directors alike. Addressing the need for a single, accessible text that presents the best practices for service deliveries to fulfill all the requirements of recently enacted Public Laws, this book offers an up-to-date resource of the most current theory and practice. The book opens with an examination of the concept of early intervention from a theoretical standpoint. It includes an extensive overview of the evolution of early intervention and an in-depth discussion of the issues surrounding definitions, especially in terms of how they impact early intervention dollars. Practical information regarding eligibility and utilization of services and effective methods for screening are provided. Chapters then apply theory to practice, inter