Early Childhood Special Education

Early Childhood Special Education provides opportunities for growth and support for children and their families. Any child between birth and five years of age with a demonstrated developmental delay, and who meets the eligibility criteria in early childhood special education, is eligible to receive services. 

If you have concerns about the way your child moves, sees, hears, plays, talks, or behaves, a referral for a free screening can be completed through the Minnesota Help Me Grow program.

Birth Through Age 2

Early Intervention are services provided to a child and their family when the child has been found eligible based on a medical condition or delay in development, according to state criteria. These services occur within the child’s natural setting and are often family-centered. Services may be provided by an early childhood special education teacher, speech/language pathologist, occupational therapist, physical therapist and/or other providers based on eligibility and need. 

Age 3 Through 5

Special education services are provided to eligible children age 3 up to kindergarten entrance for those who meet special education state criteria. These services are often delivered in a school setting based on the unique needs of each child. Services may be provided by an early childhood special education teacher, speech/language pathologist, occupational therapist, physical therapist and/or other providers based on eligibility and need.