WHAT IS THE EARLY CHILDHOOD SPECIAL EDUCATION CLASSROOM?

The E.C.S.E. was established to give special help to preschool children from 3 to 5 years of age who show a delay in one or more areas of their development. Most often a delay in their understanding or use of language is an indication that children may benefit from this program. The small class size, individual attention, and specialized staff provide an environment that fosters the development of each youngster’s speech and language, fine motor, gross motor, social, self help, general knowledge and readiness skills.

HOW DOES A CHILD QUALIFY FOR THIS PROGRAM?

A child who is experiencing difficulties in one or more of the following areas may be eligible for this program.

-a delay in his use or understanding of language
-a slower rate of development than other children his age
-perceptual or sensorimotor difficulties
-inability to control emotions and/or severe behavior problems
-mental impairment, hearing impairment, physical impairment

When a child is referred for possible placement in the E.C.S.E. classroom, he may be evaluated by the School Psychologist, Speech and Language Therapist, Special Education Teacher, and other appropriate professionals to establish eligibility for this early intervention program.

WHO CAN REFER A CHILD FOR THIS PROGRAM?

Many preschool children with special needs are referred by parents, doctors, or area preschool teachers. Others are identified during the Spring Lake Child Find Preschool Screening. Referrals may be addressed to Dana Miller, Teacher of the Early Childhood Special Education program (616-846-5503 ext. 4225).