Learning to communicate using speech and language is a primary developmental task for young children. Delays in the acquisition of language are one of the earliest indicators of developmental deficits that may affect academic and social outcomes for individuals across the life span. In the period since the passage of PL 99-457, significant…

In the last two and half decades, much has been learned about conceptualizing and developing measures for use by practitioners designed to inform their intervention decision making, such as when a child would benefit from receiving additional instructional support (universal screening) and whether the child is responding positively to the…

This paper reacts to testimony on early childhood special education research before the President's Commission on Excellence in Special Education (EC 632 080). It supports the recommendations made by the authors of that paper and suggests that, in addition, recommendations be developed that address a broader systems perspective. (Contains 5…

Results are reported from the field survey of the Council for Exceptional Children's Division for Early Childhood (DEC) Recommended Practices Project as one part of a national effort to develop evidence-based practices. Respondents (n=388) supported all the identified practices as recommended practice. Respondents also supplied information about…

This response to Rule et al. (EC 620 843) concerning translating research on naturalistic instruction into early-intervention practice with young children with disabilities raises concerns about treatment fidelity in such research studies, and notes the existence of pioneering models for studying treatment fidelity. (DB)

This response to Rule et al. (EC 620 843) concerning translating research on naturalistic instruction into early intervention practice with young children with disabilities questions whether the main features of naturalistic instruction are often fully implemented, and suggests that following the suggested guidelines might lead to actually…

Responding to an article (EC 618 445) describing an individualized program for young children with severe disabilities, including autism, and their families, this article notes features of the program such as its individualized nature, its emphasis on building capacity in families and early intervention providers, and its integrative practices…

The written testimony of the authors before the President's Commission on Excellence in Special Education in April, 2002, identifies five areas of needed effort in early childhood special education research: (1) early identification and eligibility; (2) services; (3) outcomes; (4) infrastructure; and (5) the research funding process. Specific…

Examines issues, especially definitional issues, in the practical application of effective naturalistic instructional (NI) practices in the instruction of young children with disabilities and their families. Suggests guidelines for describing independent and dependent variables in the procedural and contextual features of research into NI. (DB)