The article describes a functional model for assessing family needs, specifying family goals, implementing family services, and evaluating effectiveness. The model draws on the "goodness-of-fit" concept to individualize family services to optimize the "fit" between family, child, and services provided. (Author/CL)

Accomplishments of the Technical Assistance Development System (TADS) are cited, current challenges (including program development, and communication and coordination) are noted, and the mission mandated for TADS is outlined. (CL)

Background on the development of early education for the handicapped in the Federal Republic of Germany and on legislative and financial factors is discussed as well as current practice in early intervention and preschool education. The state of professional training and research is indicated, as are the major issues reflected in recent…

The article illustrates how social change for individuals with disabilities can be made through the legislative process. The author recounts a four-year process that concluded with the passage of legislation for a preschool program for handicapped children supported by an appropriation of one million dollars. (Author/CL)

The Dallas Independent School District (DISD) provides for the delivery of services to handicapped students from birth to six years of age through the Project KIDS (Kindling Individual Development Systems) program. Journal availability: see EC 133 846. (Author)

A review of components in the development and administration of effective preschool special education programs covers intraagency, agency, program, and staff administrative functions for preschool administrators, stressing the importance of linkage among duties. (CB)

The C.A.S.E. model (Conceptualization, Acquisition, Staff Development, and Evaluation) provides a management model for introducing computers into a preschool program for handicapped children over a period of 4 years. Each of the four model components are described and practical applications provided. (Author/DB)

Two Transition Planners, containing rating scales and open-ended questions, were used to involve parents of preschool handicapped children in the identification of transition-related needs. Parents rated as very important opportunities for them to participate in planning and selecting the next program and receiving descriptions of potential…

Project ACTT (Activating Children Through Technology) has adapted hardware (switches, battery operated toys, and microcomputers) and developed software for use with handicapped children (birth to 3). Individual child assessment of abilities, switch determination and placement, positioning, environmental design, choice of equipment, parent…

A review of 40 federally funded personnel preparation projects for infant specialists focused on: demographic information; project scope; project rationale; training content, including competencies, practicum, and coursework; staff; budget; and project evaluation. Areas needing further examination by the early intervention field include training…

The paper provides a synthesis of "best practices" from the field of disability, which can be applied to develop exemplary early childhood special education programs. Exemplary programs are determined to be those providing services that are integrated, comprehensive, normalized, adaptable, peer- and family-referenced, and outcome-based.…