We describe historical foundations of professional development (PD) in early childhood intervention (ECI) and where we stand on the silver anniversary of PL 99-457. To advance its scientific basis, we assert that it is important to define what is meant by PD; identify structural and process features of PD hypothesized to be effective for…

This report summarizes discussions from a policy options conference devoted to the needs for personnel preparation related to the implementation of Public Law 99-457, Part H, which provides services to infants and toddlers with handicapping conditions and their families. The three policy questions identified as the most significant were: (1) what…

Part H of Public Law 99-457, the Education of the Handicapped Act Amendments, 1986, requires states to develop a system for preparation of personnel to work with infants and toddlers with disabilities and their families, and to establish personnel standards for early intervention services. A study of 10 professional associations was conducted to…