ABSTRACT

The field of early intervention continues to experience challenges in connecting theory and practice and translating recommendations into action. This chapter will address some of the special concerns and challenges facing the profession today, especially as these relate to (1) merging early childhood education and special education, (2) issues related to inclusion, (3) the expanded role of the teacher, (4) identification and assessment issues, and (5) working with families. While these ‘challenges’ are discussed as separate sections in this chapter, in reality there is considerable overlap between them.