Preschool special education
Last updated
Preschool special education is special education and related services for eligible children ages 3 through 5 under IDEA Part B.
Topic: Early childhood
In plain terms
Services can happen in many places: public preschool classes, Head Start, community child care, special education preschools, or the child's home. Many children are served in inclusive classes with typically developing peers. Goals often target communication, play, social, self-help and early academic skills through everyday routines.
How it shows up in an IEP
For preschoolers, the present levels describe how the disability affects participation in appropriate activities. Goals are often play-based and measured during routines like circle time, snack and centers, with data on opportunities or duration.
Example
A 4-year-old receives speech therapy in an inclusive pre-K classroom. A goal targets taking turns in a board game with a peer in 3 of 4 play sessions.
The rule
Federal reference: 34 CFR §300.320(a)(1)(ii).
Rules vary by state. Check your state's regulations and your district's procedures.
Related terms
- Developmental delayDevelopmental delay is an IDEA eligibility option for young children with delays in physical, cognitive, communication, social or adaptive development.
- Part C to Part B transitionPart C to Part B transition is the planned move of a child from early intervention to preschool special education around the child's third birthday.
- Joint attentionJoint attention is two people sharing focus on the same object or event, and each knowing the other is paying attention to it.
- One-to-one correspondenceOne-to-one correspondence is matching exactly one number word to each object counted, so every item is counted once.
- InclusionInclusion is the practice of educating students with disabilities in general education classes, with the supports they need to learn and belong.
On IEP Atlas
- Preschool & Kindergarten Readiness IEP goals
- Play & Social Participation IEP goals
- Early childhood IEP goals
This page describes special education terms and federal rules in general terms and is not legal advice. Our editorial policy explains how IEP Atlas writes and reviews content. Browse all 244 terms.