One of nine competency-based training modules for personnel preparation in early childhood special education, this guide focuses on developing the individualized education program (IEP). All modules are adaptable for use with a general audience, direct service personnel, or administrators and are based on the following principles of the Ohio Department of Education's Division of Early Childhood Education: developmentally appropriate practice; integration of children with disabilities with typically developing peers; collaborative relationships with families; attention to individual needs; and provision for and valuing of diversity among young children and their families. Modules are intended to be used in whole or in part, in groups or for self-instruction. Each module comprises goals; competencies (knowledge, skill, and values and attitudes); and objectives, with a matrix for each objective identifying enabling activities, resources, and leader notes. Relevant handouts, forms, and readings are provided for each objective. This module provides participants with five goals: (1) state the definition and understand the purpose of an IEP; (2) understand state and federal regulations in regard to the IEP; (3) recognize that the IEP is one component of a comprehensive service delivery system; (4) recognize the importance of an integrated IEP; and (5) understand various IEP formats appropriate for young children with disabilities. (Contains 25 references.) (DB)