Four children (ages 1-2) with language delays were evaluated to assess the benefits of a play-based model for providing an accurate analysis of a child's language capabilities. The play-based assessment model provided a broader picture of the children's emerging skills, which was helpful in planning interventions. (Author/CR)

Maintains that the neglect of elementary school populations in violence intervention programs is related to society's definition of the word "violence" and ignorance about developmental precursors to serious violence. Discusses successful European interventions and suggests guidelines for future research and programs. (JPS)

The Human Genome Initiative (HGI) constructs common resources for studying human genetics. Early identification of people at risk for genetic disorders allows for early education and counseling. HGI research will create inexpensive, reliable genetic tests and diagnoses to help teachers and school staff assess, compare, and channel students. (SM)

Reports preliminary findings of the first national survey of services to identify and provide specialist support to profoundly deaf infants and young children in England and Wales. Notes that the resources available for early identification of deaf infants and the quality of professional support to promote habilitation is quite variable.…

Family members (N=83) who participated in professional team staffing concerning treatment plans for their child with a craniofacial difference (typically, cleft lip and/or palate) were surveyed. Ninety-seven percent of respondents said they would choose to meet with the team on their next visit to the clinic. The role of early interventionists on…

Reviews trends in service provision to children with special needs and demonstrates the research-based efficacy of early intervention in family-centered inclusive contexts in early educational and care settings. Argues that changing roles of early childhood teachers need to be strengthened, because teachers possess skills to coordinate and…

This editorial comments on a study that found that parents of infants prenatally exposed to illegal drugs did not subsequently have more child abuse allegations than a comparison sample. The need for adult and child welfare professionals to work together in serving infants and their parents is stressed. (Contains 1 reference.) (CR)

Sixty-two students from special needs kindergartens were given early mathematics intervention. The early numeracy program was developed for children with disabilities and early numeracy difficulties by basing instruction on perceptual gestalt theory. Children performed better at posttest than controls but failed to transfer their knowledge to…

Notes that attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is commonly diagnosed in the first few years of education. Details characteristics of ADHD and education interventions, including: (1) giving frequent, immediate, and specific feedback; (2) breaking tasks into smaller units; and (3) using preferred activities to reinforce appropriate…

Reading Recovery is an early intervention program that aims to drastically reduce the number of children who need remedial help in reading and writing in their later school years. Developed in New Zealand in 1984, the 12-15-week program is now being used across Canada. (Author/SV)

This study attempted to ascertain commonalities and differences in critical program practices among nationally known, validated educational programs for young children with autistic spectrum disorders. Areas of agreement among programs included early intervention, individualization, specialized curriculum, family involvement, systematic…

This preliminary study assessed differences in symbolic play behavior among 20 verbal and nonverbal children with autism, ages 2.5 to 3.6 years. Results indicated significant differences in symbolic play behavior with the verbal group demonstrating a higher order level of performance. Results underscore the importance of not considering all young…

Addresses program evaluation of the personnel preparation in early-intervention programs. Describes an interdisciplinary preservice program, discusses the program's evaluation areas, reviews the specific evaluation tools, and presents evaluation results over a four-year period. Critical program components are highlighted. (Author/DB)

Describes the variety of possible effects of traumatic brain injuries (TBI) on early childhood development in the cognitive, language, social-emotional, motor, and adaptive domains. Suggests interventions which can assist young survivors and their families. Suggests that more long-term, intensive studies be conducted on the short- and long-term…

This article describes the functional assessment (FA) strategies used in Project DATA (Developmentally Appropriate Treatment for Autism), a school-based model program for young children with autism. These strategies consist of five interrelated steps: (1) gathering information, (2) brainstorming, (3) making a plan, (4) implementing the plan, and…