Publications By Most Recent Date

Implementing and Sustaining an Effective Service Delivery Approach: Stages and Steps

prepared by NECTAC

This guide describes five major stages in the process of changing your state's service delivery approach and the critical considerations and steps that need to be addressed for each stage. While not a rigid sequence of activities, there is a logical flow. In actual implementation, the activities may cross stages and may be worked on simultaneously. Also, a change effort may begin at a later stage but back-track to do the work of the earlier stages.

Outline of Stages and Steps (PDF: 225kb) (One-Page Handout)
Implementing and Sustaining an Effective Service Delivery Approach: Stages and Steps (PDF: 477kb) (Complete text of Interactive Guide)

NECTAC, (2011), 6 pp.

Availability: The full online version includes greater detail and downloadable resource documents: http://www.nectac.org/effectiveservicedelivery/splash.asp

Part C Updates: Selected Aspects of the Early Intervention Program for Infants and Toddlers with Disabilities, (Part C) of IDEA

Danaher, J., Goode, S., & Lazara, A. (Eds.)

This publication provides a compilation of resources on the Early Intervention Program for Infants and Toddlers with Disabilities (Part C) of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Section I contains information on Part C program administration, funding appropriations, and trend data related to the numbers of children served, the settings in which children receive services and the status of children exiting Part C from www.ideadata.org. Section II contains resources on Part C program implementation, including: federal regulations, states’ Part C rules, regulations, and policies, OSEP policy clarification letters, and a bibliography of selected online publications and journal articles related to the implementation of Part C published in 2010-2011. Section III includes federal and state level Part C program contact information.
Previous Editions of the Part C Updates are available as well:

Current Edition: 12th Edition (2011) (PDF: 1,792kb)
11th Edition (2010) (PDF: 3,746kb)
10th Edition (2008) (PDF: 4,000kb)
9th Edition (2007) (PDF: 4,765kb)
8th Edition (2006) (PDF: 3,507kb)
7th Edition (2005) (PDF: 3,023kb)
6th Edition (2004) (PDF: 21,784kb)
5th Edition (2003) (PDF: 12,989kb)
4th Edition (2002) via ERIC, ERIC no. ED474693; (PDF: 5,330kb)

NECTAC, (2011), 66 pp.

Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/partcupdate2011.pdf

(PDF: 1792kb)

Section 619 Profile

Lazara, A., Danaher, J., Kraus, R., Goode, S., & Festa, C. (Eds.)

The 2011 edition of this publication updates information provided by state coordinators on state policies, programs, and practices under the Preschool Grants Program (Section 619 of Part B) of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Information includes: program administration, funding, interagency coordination, personnel, transition, monitoring, use of IEPs/ IFSPs, family-centered services, standards and outcomes, pre-kindergarten programs, initiatives for special populations, and services in least restrictive environments (LRE). The volume also includes a compilation of information on the Section 619 program from other sources: federal and state policies, a bibliography of selected online publications and journal articles related to the implementation of Section 619 published in 2010-2011, contact information for state and jurisdictional program coordinators, and program data from www.ideadata.org.
Previous editions of the Section 619 Profile are available as well:

Current Edition: 18th Edition (2011) (PDF: 2,468kb)
17th Edition (2010) (PDF: 3,182kb)
16th Edition (2008-2009) (PDF: 3,385kb)
15th Edition (2007) (PDF: 4,429kb)
14th Edition (2006) (PDF: 3,173kb)
13th Edition (2005) (PDF: 1,077kb)
12th Edition (2003) (PDF: 5,332kb)
11th Edition (2002) via ERIC, ERIC No. ED474692; (PDF: 4,124kb)

NECTAC, (2011), 80 pp.

Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/sec619_2011.pdf

(PDF: 2,468kb)

The Importance and Outcomes of Early Intervention for Infants and Toddlers with Disabilities and their Families

prepared by Sue Goode, Martha Diefendorf and Siobhan Colgan

The Infants and Toddlers with Disabilities Program (Part C) of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) was created in 1986 to enhance the development of infants and toddlers with disabilities, minimize potential developmental delay, and reduce educational costs to our society by minimizing the need for special education services as children with disabilities reach school age. These fact sheets provide brief overviews of the Part C program and facts from the research on early brain development, the importance of intervening early, the outcomes of early intervention, and current unmet needs. They are meant to be used as a tool to communicate with policymakers, pediatricians, families, and community leaders about the importance of high quality services for infants and toddlers with or at-risk for developmental delays and their families.

NECTAC, (2011)

Availability:

Importance: The Importance of Early Intervention for Infants and Toddlers with Disabilities and their Families (2011) (PDF: 479kb)
Outcomes: The Outcomes of Early Intervention for Infants and Toddlers with Disabilities and their Families (2011) (PDF: 483kb)

Evaluation Summary of the Expanding Opportunities Interagency Inclusion Initiative: Increasing and Enhancing Access, Participation and Supports for All Children in High Quality Inclusive Programs and Services

The National Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center

This paper describes the impetus for creating the Expanding Opportunities Interagency Inclusion Initiative and achievements to date in identifying and implementing effective and efficient inclusion strategies in the participating states.

NECTAC, (2011), 8 pp.

Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/exp_opps_eval_summary.pdf

(PDF: 561kb)

States' Accountability and Progress in Serving Young Children with Disabilities

Kasprzak, C., Hurth, J., Rooney, R., Goode, S. E., Danaher, J. C., Whaley, K. T., Ringwalt, S. S., & Cate, D.

Since the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) was reauthorized in 2004, states have been working to enhance their accountability systems in order to gather more meaningful data about the quality of their early intervention and early childhood special education programs, as well as the results/outcomes these programs are achieving for young children with disabilities and their families. This article uses trend data reported by the states on their annual performance reports (APRs) for FFY 2005-06 through FFY 2008-09 to provide an overview of the progress they have made on indicators related to early identification, timely provision of services in natural environments, early childhood transition, and early childhood outcomes. It includes information about the challenges states have faced, the improvement strategies they have implemented, and implications for the future.

Topics in Early Childhood Special Education. Advance online publication, May 20, 2011. doi:10.1177/0271121411408119

Availability: Sage Journals Online at http://tec.sagepub.com/content/early/2011/05/19/0271121411408119.abstract

Part C Lead Agencies

Danaher, J.

Part C of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) requires that the governor of each participating state/jurisdiction designate a Lead Agency for the purpose of carrying out: general administration and supervision; identification and coordination of all available resources; assignment of financial responsibility to the appropriate agencies; development of procedures to ensure that services are provided in a timely manner pending resolution of any disputes; resolution of intra- and interagency disputes; and, development of formal interagency agreements.

NECTAC Notes, No. 26, (2011), 4 pp.

Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/nnotes26.pdf

(PDF: 824kb)

Eligibility Policies and Practices for Young Children Under Part B of IDEA

Danaher, J.

IDEA offers special provisions for states to identify children younger than school age who are eligible for special education and related services. In addition to the Part B disability categories used for school aged students, states may use Developmental Delay (DD), or a term of their choosing, for ages three through nine or a subset thereof. This paper discusses the options states have and analyzes their current policies. A table of the eligibility criteria with links to source documents for the states and District of Columbia is an Attachment to the paper.

NECTAC Notes, No. 27, (2011), 21 pp.

Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/nnotes27.pdf

(PDF: 1061kb)

NECTAC Technical Assistance Model for Long-Term Systems Change: Three State Examples

Kasprzak, C., Hurth, J., Lucas, A., Marshall, J., Terrell, A., & Jones, E.

The NECTAC TA Model for Long-Term Systems Change (LTSC) is grounded in conceptual frameworks in the literature on systems change and systems thinking. The NECTAC conceptual framework uses a logic model approach to change developed specifically for states’ infant and toddler early intervention programs and preschool special education service systems, designed to benefit young children with disabilities, from birth through age 5, and their families. NECTAC has supported many states over the last seven years in implementing systems change resulting in improvements for systems that serve young children with disabilities and their families. Three examples are presented in this document. The first focuses on building a system for measuring child outcomes, the second focuses on building an effective general supervision and monitoring system, and the third focuses on ensuring high quality family centered services through reviewing the quality of Individualized Family Service Plans (IFSPs). Data collected for this paper was gathered through interviews, surveys, and email communications with state Part C and Section 619 Coordinators as well as NECTAC TA providers involved in supporting these states’ initiatives.
An executive summary of this document is are available as well:

Full Report: NECTAC TA Model for Long-Term Systems Change: Three State Examples (2010) (PDF: 2,759kb)
Executive Summary: NECTAC TA Model for Long-Term Systems Change: Three State Examples (Executive Summary) (2010) (PDF: 1,524kb)

NECTAC, (2010), 8 pp.

Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/ltsc3states.pdf

(PDF: 2759kb)

Quality Indicators of Inclusive Programs/Practices: A Compilation of Selected Resources

Cate, D., Diefendorf, M., McCullough, K., Peters, M., & Whaley, K.

Available resources and indicators of high quality inclusive practices are presented in this compilation. Assembling many different resources in one place allows for easy comparison of potential indicators of quality. Excerpts and adaptations of the resources are intended to provide some familiarity with the content of each resource and encourage further examination via links to more complete information. National and state-developed resources contained within this document have been designed for a variety of audiences, and may be useful for families, practitioners, program administrators, technical assistance personnel, researchers, and state administrators.

NECTAC, (2010), 34pp.

Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/qualityindicatorsinclusion.pdf

(PDF: 2,000kb)

Essential Elements of High Performing, High Quality Part C Systems

Lucas, A., Hurth, J. & Kasprzak, C.

NECTAC was asked to identify essential elements for supporting high performance and provision of high quality early intervention Part C services as determined by the Annual Performance Review (APR) required under IDEA. To respond, NECTAC interviewed one state and conducted a focus group with four other states that have consistently met requirements on the APR indicators and are maintaining effective, efficient practices. Additionally, the NECTAC review of states’ APR early childhood indicators and technical assistance experience also helped inform the identification of commonalities across states that could be considered essential elements of a high performing Part C system

NECTAC Notes, No. 25, (2010), 4 pp.

Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/nnotes25.pdf

(PDF: 756kb)

Autism in the Classroom: A Group of Students Changing in Population and Presentation

Boyd. B. A. & Shaw, E.

This article discusses the impact of the growing rate of children diagnosed with autism on early intervention programs and the public school system. It includes an overview of the characteristics of autism, research on early behavioral indicators of infants and toddlers at risk for autism, indicators that may be overlooked in older children, and educational implications of the disorder. Current and pending federal policy initiatives related to autism are also discussed.

Preventing School Failure, 54(4), pp. 211-219, May 2010. doi:10.1080/10459881003744552

Availability: Informaworld at http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/10459881003744552

NECTAC TA Collaborations

Diefendorf, M.

This paper highlights several current collaborative activities of the National Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center (NECTAC). There are many specific examples of TA collaborations that take place on a regular basis; the seven examples presented here were selected to represent different types of collaboration. The descriptions were developed for the OSEP/OESE Leveraging Resources Meeting, Washington, DC, April 13-14, 2010 and were included in handouts at the Improving Early Learning Workgroup sessions at that meeting.

NECTAC, (May 2010), 8 pp.

Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/nectac_ta_collaborations.pdf

(PDF: 244kb)

Evaluation Highlights: Client Feedback March 2009 - March 2010

Kasprzak, C., Marshall, J., Terrell, A., & Jones, E.

The NECTAC Evaluation Unit collects and analyzes data to describe the quantity and nature of the technical assistance services provided by NECTAC staff. The Unit evaluates the quality and relevance of NECTAC services and products and whether TA recipients use the information and resources gained to improve state and local systems and services. In addition, in February 2010, a national survey was conducted by an independent external evaluator with all primary clients (Part C and Section 619 Coordinators from all states and jurisdictions) regardless of their level of participation in NECTAC TA. The highlights included in this report include data from both internal and external evaluation efforts from March 2009 to March 2010.

NECTAC, (April 2010), 4 pp.

Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/nectac_eval_highlights_2010.pdf

(PDF: 722kb)

Expanding Opportunities: An Interagency Inclusion Initiative

Prepared by NECTAC

Research has shown that both young children with disabilities and their peers benefit from participating together in quality programs and community activities. However, inclusive opportunities for young children with disabilities are often not systematic, comprehensive or necessarily of high quality. Four federal agency partners recognized the need to promote collaborative efforts in states that would result in high quality inclusive opportunities for all children and families. They created the Expanding Opportunities Initiative and supported it through the coordinated efforts of their technical assistance (TA) resources. This interagency inclusion initiative began in 2005 and has continued to be supported by the federal partners each year.

NECTAC, (March 2010), 2 pp.

Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/nectac_eval_expopps.pdf

(PDF: 340kb)

Evaluating SPP/APR Improvement Activities

Prepared for the OSEP Systems and Improvement Planning Priority Team by NECTAC and the RRC Program

This document is intended to assist State Education Agency (SEA) and Lead Agency (LA) staff and technical assistance providers in designing a meaningful evaluation for the State Performance Plan (SPP)/Annual Performance Report (APR) improvement activities. It provides 1) information about the relevance of evaluation in the context of improvement planning and strategic systems thinking; 2) guidance on selecting an appropriate design for evaluating different types of improvement activities and; 3) additional resources and tools that support the overall design, implementation and evaluation of the SPP which may serve as a State's blueprint for systems improvement.

NECTAC, (2009), 13 pp.

Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/evaluatingsppapractivities.pdf

(PDF: 190kb)

Evaluation Highlights: Client Feedback September 2006 - October 2009

Kasprzak, C., Marshall, J., Terrell, A., & Jones, E.

The NECTAC Evaluation Unit collects and analyzes data to describe the quantity and nature of the technical assistance services provided by NECTAC staff. The Unit determines the quality and relevance of NECTAC services and products and whether clients use NECTAC Technical Assistance (TA) to improve state and local systems and services. An external evaluation was conducted with all primary clients (Part C and Section 619 Coordinators from all states and jurisdictions) regardless of their level of participation in NECTAC TA. The highlights included in this report include data from October 1, 2006 to September 30, 2009.

NECTAC, (December 2009), 4 pp.

Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/nectac_eval_highlights_report.pdf

(PDF: 320kb)

Queries: Screening and Early Identification of Autism Spectrum Disorders

Shaw, E. & Hatton, D. (Eds.).

In response to interest from the National Professional Development Center on Autism Spectrum Disorders (NPDC-ASD), NECTAC queried state Part C and Section 619 coordinators regarding screening measures, diagnostic instruments and procedures, and trends in identifying young children with ASD under the age of five years. NECTAC collaborated with the NPDC-ASD to develop and refine a series of questions and then to conduct an on-line survey during a two week period in November 2008. The survey was opened again in August 2009 to allow responses from additional states. Individual states are not identified in this report.

NECTAC. (2009). 7 pp.

Availability: http://www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/queries/queries_asdscreening.pdf

(PDF: 896kb)

NECTAC Technical Assistance Model for Long-Term Systems Change

Kahn, L., Hurth, J., Diefendorf, M., Kasprzak, C., Lucas, A., & Ringwalt, S.

The National Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center (NECTAC) was charged by the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) from 2001-2006 to develop, implement, and evaluate an approach to technical assistance that would result in sustainable systems change in state Early Intervention and Preschool Special Education programs served under the early childhood provisions of IDEA. Even with the individualized nature of the systems change work with states, and with the variation across plans on a number of dimensions, NECTAC was able to determine the most effective strategies relating to the development and implementation processes for producing better results. The most important lessons learned are incorporated into the description of the model in this paper and can be applied to future technical assistance with states on system change initiatives.

NECTAC, (June 2009), 26 pp.

Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/tamodel.pdf

(PDF: 792kb)

Thinking Points: A Synthesis of Ideas About the Change Process (Topics: An occasional paper on the literature and practice of Technical Assistance)

Hurth, J. & Goode, S. (Eds.)

This series, Topics in TA, is being produced by NECTAC staff to share with our colleagues and others who are interested in the research on and practice of technical assistance. We will address various topics drawing from relevant literature and our experience in providing technical assistance. The impetus for this series is in large part to honor our late director, Pascal 'Pat' Trohanis, who guided and inspired us for 35 years. Pat was a consummate collaborator and greatly enjoyed sharing with and learning from our TA colleagues in and outside of the OSEP-funded TA & Dissemination network. This first paper is one he originally prepared to share with that network and concerns systemic changes in service systems. We welcome your comments on this paper and the series.

NECTAC, (2009), 4pp.

Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/tatopics/topics_thinkingpoints.pdf

(PDF: 830kb)

The Evolution of the National Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center

Gallagher, J. J., Danaher, J. C., & Clifford, R. M.

This review traces the evolution from 1971 to the present of a national technical assistance (TA) program to support the creation, expansion, and improvement of services for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers with special needs. From its beginning as a TA resource for demonstration projects, to linking outreach projects' expertise with state efforts to expand services, to supporting national constituencies across the research, development, and policy communities, to promoting program improvement and accountability for results, the OSEP-funded national early childhood TA center has been an important piece of a comprehensive infrastructure for early childhood special education. Through its collaboration with other agencies' early childhood TA programs, the National Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center is committed to influencing the development of an infrastructure for early childhood to better serve all of our children.

Topics in Early Childhood Special Education, 29(1), 7-23, 2009. doi: 10.1177/0271121408330931

Availability: Sage Journals Online at http://tec.sagepub.com/content/29/1/7.abstract

The National Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center Model for Long-Term Systems Change

Kahn, L., Hurth, J., Kasprzak, C. M., Diefendorf, M. J., Goode, S. E., & Ringwalt, S. S.

The National Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center was charged by the U.S. Department of Education's Office of Special Education Programs from October 2001 through September 2006 to develop, implement, and evaluate an approach to technical assistance (TA) that would result in sustainable systems change in state early intervention and preschool special education programs served under the early childhood provisions of Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. Both process and summative evaluations were conducted over the 5-year contract period. The TA Model for Long-Term Systems Change was found to result in improvements in state and local infrastructures, personnel development systems, practices, and outcomes for children and families. The resulting model is a legacy that Pat Trohanis leaves to the field of technical assistance.

Topics in Early Childhood Special Education, 29(1), 24-39, 2009. doi: 10.1177/0271121409334039

Availability: Sage Journals Online at http://tec.sagepub.com/content/29/1/24.abstract

Developmental Screening and Assessment Instruments with an Emphasis on Social and Emotional Development for Young Children Ages Birth through Five

Ringwalt, S.

The screening instruments included focus on the social-emotional developmental domain as well as those that address multiple developmental domains. The screening instruments are further sub-divided into those which must be administered by professionals and those that may be completed by family members or other caregivers. A list of social-emotional assessment instruments that must be administered by professionals is also provided. The information for each instrument includes a description, the age range for which the instrument was validated, the time to administer, the scoring procedure, psychometric properties, and requirements for administrators, and a link to, or address for, the publisher or source of more information.

NECTAC, (2008), 20 pp.

Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/screening.pdf

(PDF: 950kb)

Queries: Personnel Certification and Specialized Service Providers for ASD

Danaher, J., Shaw, E., & Lazara, A. (Eds.).

In response to states’ interest, NECTAC queried Part C and Section 619 Coordinators regarding certification or endorsements for personnel working with children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and how states provide services for children diagnosed with ASD.

NECTAC, (2008), 5pp.

Availability: http://www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/queries/queries_asd.pdf

(PDF: 887kb)

Fact Sheet: Vulnerable Young Children

Shaw, E. and Goode, S.

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) requires states participating in Part C to refer for early intervention (EI) services any child under the age of 3 who is involved in a substantiated case of child abuse or neglect; or is identified as affected by illegal substance abuse, or withdrawal symptoms resulting from prenatal drug exposure. The Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act Reauthorization Act (CAPTA) also requires states that receive CAPTA funds to refer children under age 3 who are involved in a substantiated case of abuse or neglect to Part C early intervention services. This fact sheet provides data on infants, toddlers and young children who are experiencing these kinds of risk factors. It includes a section highlighting factors that have been found to promote positive outcomes for all vulnerable young children and their families..

NECTAC, (2008), 7 pp.

Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/factsheet_vulnerable.pdf

(PDF: 253kb)

Progress in Providing Services to Young Children With Special Needs and Their Families: An Overview to and Update on the Implementation of the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)

Trohanis, P. L.

This article updates our 2002 paper of the same title. It presents a historical overview of the following three IDEA programs and their major accomplishments in providing services to infants, toddlers, and preschoolers with special needs and their families: (1) Part C, the Program for Infants and Toddlers With Disabilities, (2) Part B, Section 619, the Preschool Grants Program, and (3) Part D, National Activities to Improve Education of Children with Disabilities

Journal of Early Intervention, 30(2), 140-151, 2008. doi: 10.1177/105381510731205

Availability: Sage Journals Online at http://jei.sagepub.com/content/30/2/140.abstract

(PDF: 100kb)

A Framework for Developing and Sustaining a Part C Finance System

Greer, M., Taylor, A., & Mackey Andrews, S. D.

This paper summarizes the fiscal challenges that this legislation presents and proposes a framework for analyzing, adjusting, and maintaining a flexible and self-regulating finance system to support Part C early intervention services for infants and toddlers and their families. The framework design features four phases of work to help agencies understand the issues and make informed decisions for on-going development and support of a Part C finance system.

NECTAC Notes, No. 23, (2007), 10 pp.

Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/nnotes23.pdf

(PDF: 158kb)

To Fee or Not to Fee: That is the Question!

Mackey Andrews, S. D. & Taylor, A.

This paper summarizes the current financing difficulties faced by state and local Part C agencies, and it examines in closer detail aspects and implications of Family Cost Participation, under which some family resources may be accessed to distribute the cost of intervention services provided to the client family.

NECTAC Notes, No. 22, (2007), 16 pp.

Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/nnotes22.pdf

(PDF: 177kb)

State and Jurisdictional Eligibility Definitions for Infants and Toddlers With Disabilities Under IDEA

Shackelford, J.

Analyzes states' Part C definitions of developmental delay, established conditions, and biological and environmental risk categories. A chart lists definitions and identifies states serving at-risk children.

NECTAC Notes, No. 21, (2006), 16 pp.

Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/nnotes21.pdf

(PDF: 207kb)

Brain Research and Early Childhood Development: A Selection of Online Resources - Minbibliography

Goode, S. (Ed.)

In recent years, research on young children’s early brain development has underscored its importance for later development. This minibibliography includes a selection of online resources that discuss some the latest developments in this field and related educational policy issues.

NECTAC, (2006), 6 pp.

Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/brainresearch.pdf

(PDF: 100kb)

Homelessness and Young Children: Early Childhood Care and Education - Minibibliography

Goode, S., & Shaw, E.

This annotated minibibliography provides a selection of resources that address the needs and educational rights of young children experiencing homelessness, as well as strategies for working with these vulnerable children and their families in early childhood care and education programs.

NECTAC, (2006), 8 pp.

Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/homeless.pdf

(PDF: 106kb)

Assistive Technology and Diversity Issues - Minibibliography

Goode, S. (Ed.)

An annotated bibliography presenting resources related to assistive technology and diversity.

NECTAC, (2005), 5 pp.

Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/at.pdf

(PDF: 93kb)

Challenges in Evaluating Psychosocial Interventions for Autistic Spectrum Disorders

Lord, C., Wagner, A., Rogers, S., Szatmari, P., Aman, M., Charman, T., Dawson, G., Durand, V., Grossman, L., Guthrie, D., Harris, S., Kasari, C., Marcus, L., Murphy, S., Odom, S., Pickles, A., Scahill, L., Shaw, E., Siegel, B., & Sigman, M.

This paper provides a summary of a 2002 National Institutes of Health meeting "Research on Psychosocial and Behavioral Interventions in Autism: Confronting the Methodological Challenges", including presentations, discussions and recommendations to federal and private agencies involved in either funding or supporting research and training in autism.

Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, December 2005, 35(6), pp. 695-708.

Availability: Contact us

Early Identification of Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Children (Aged 0-5) - Minibibliography

Goode, S., Shaw, E., Ringwalt, S., & Ayankoya, B. (Eds.)

An annotated bibliography presenting resources related to the early identification of culturally and linguistically diverse children.

NECTAC, (2005), 9 pp.

Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/earlyidmini.pdf

(PDF: 103kb)

Funding of Assistive Technology for Infants, Toddlers and Young Children with Disabilities - Minibibliography

Goode, S. (Ed.)

An annotated bibliography presenting resources exploring the various assistive technology funding sources for infants, toddlers and young children with disabilities.

NECTAC, (2005), 5 pp.

Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/atfunding.pdf

(PDF: 90kb)

Policy Issues and Intervention Strategies for Young Children Prenatally Exposed to Drugs or Alcohol: Selected Resources

Shaw, E., & Goode, S.

An annotated bibliography presenting resources related to policy issues and early intervention strategies for children affected by illegal substance abuse, or withdrawal symptoms resulting from prenatal drug exposure.

NECTAC, (2005), 10 pp.

Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/prenatalexp.pdf

(PDF: 108kb)

Selected Resources on Financing Early Childhood Systems to Support Inclusive Options for Young Children with Disabilities - Minibibliography

Whaley, K., Goode, S., & deFosset, S.

An annotated bibliography presenting resources related to financing early childhood systems to support inclusive options for young children with disabilities.

NECTAC, (2005), 5 pp.

Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/financemini.pdf

(PDF: 91kb)

The Impact of Abuse, Neglect and Foster Care Placement on Infants, Toddlers and Young Children: Selected Resources - Minibibliography

Shaw, E., & Goode, S.

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) requires states participating in Part C to refer for early intervention (EI) services any child under the age of 3 who is involved in a substantiated case of child abuse or neglect. The Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act Reauthorization Act (CAPTA) also requires states that receive CAPTA funds to refer children under age 3 who are involved in a substantiated case of abuse or neglect to Part C early intervention services. This minibibliography contains a selection of resources related specifically to the incidence and impact of abuse or neglect on very young children, and related policy issues.

NECTAC, (2005), 13 pp.

Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/abuseneglect.pdf

(PDF: 132kb)

The Long Term Economic Benefits Of High Quality Early Childhood Intervention Programs - Minibibliography

Diefendorf, M., & Goode, S.

An extensive body of research indicates that high quality early intervention for at-risk infants, toddlers and young children and their families is a sound economic investment. Studies have found a number of long-term cost savings in terms of decreased grade repetition, reduced special education spending, enhanced productivity, lower welfare costs, increased tax revenues, and lower juvenile justice costs. This minibibliography provides a selection of articles, reports, and book chapters that review some of the major findings on this topic. Some of the included studies focus on services for young children with disabilities, although most address early intervention for children who are at risk for adverse developmental outcomes due to poverty and other environmental factors.

NECTAC, (2005), 9 pp.

Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/econbene.pdf

(PDF: 112kb)

Transitions From Infant Toddler Services to Preschool Education - Minibibliography

Whaley, K., & Goode, S.

An annotated bibliography presenting resources related to transitions from infant toddler services to preschool education.

NECTAC, (2005), 9 pp.

Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/transition.pdf

(PDF: 105kb)

Recruiting and Retaining Diverse Parent Representation on Interagency Coordinating Councils

Swett, J., Xiong, D., Ayankoya, B., and Shackelford, J.

This document describes several ways ICCs can encourage and expand diverse parent representation on councils and committees. Although it specifically concerns parent members, this paper can also be useful for general recruitment of diverse members.

NECTAC Notes, No. 17, (2004), 8 pp.

Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/nnotes17.pdf

(PDF: 62kb)

Revisiting a Comparison of Eligibility Policies for Infant/Toddler Programs and Preschool Special Education Programs

Danaher, J., Shackelford, J., & Harbin, G.

In this study, the authors repeated an earlier analysis and comparison of state eligibility policies under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), and the preschool special education program, Part B, Section 619, of IDEA. The impact of federal and state policy changes in the intervening years on the prospects for continuity of eligibility as children move from Part C to Part B was investigated. The analysis revealed fewer states in which discontinuity was a concern (21, down from 27). States in which continuity was either "very likely" or "somewhat likely" increased from 24 to 30. The authors discuss policy options affecting continuity of eligibility across the early childhood programs of IDEA and the relevance of their findings for realizing the purposes of IDEA.

Topics in Early Childhood Special Education, 2004, 24(2), pp. 59-67

Availability: Contact us

Including Preschool-Age Children With Disabilities in Community Settings: A Resource Packet (3rd Edition)

deFosset, S. (Ed.)

A variety of resources on: perspectives on inclusionary practices; the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act related to child care services for children with disabilities; and the basis in federal law for inclusive practices. Includes information about selected federally funded projects that focus on inclusion issues and about selected videos, training materials, and other resources supporting inclusion.

NECTAC, (2004), 82 pp.

Availability: Contact us

State ICC Overview: Policies, Programs, and Practices of State Interagency Coordinating Councils Under IDEA

Shackelford, J. (Ed.)

Presents information on the composition and membership, parent roles and participation, structure and organization, and roles and functions of the ICCs in 40 states and jurisdictions. It includes information about local or regional ICCs and their relationship to the state ICC. The full text of those portions of the federal regulations (prior to reauthorization) pertaining to state ICCs is included.

NECTAC, (2003), 71 pp.

Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/SICCoverview.pdf

(PDF: 1,259kb)

Progress in Providing Services to Young Children with Special Needs and Their Families: An Overview to and Update on the Implementation of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)

Trohanis, P. L.

This paper presents a historical look at IDEA and its progress in providing services to young children with special needs and their families. (PDF: 659kb)

NECTAC Notes, No. 12, (2002), 18 pp.

Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/nnotes12.pdf; ERIC, ERIC No. ED471882

(PDF: 659kb)

Informed Clinical Opinion

Shackelford, J.

This paper looks at the term "informed clinical opinion" and addresses its meaning in the context of Part C, its effect on the determination of eligibility and why its documentation is necessary.

NECTAC Notes, No. 10, (2002), 4 pp.

Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/nnotes10.pdf; ERIC, ERIC No. ED471885

(PDF: 49kb)

Assuring the Family's Role on the Early Intervention Team: Explaining Rights and Safeguards

Hurth, J. L., & Goff, P. E.

Presents a synthesis of innovative practices and ideas for explaining procedural safeguards to families in ways that are supportive of their role as partners in the early intervention process.

NECTAC, (2002), 13 pp.

Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/assuring.pdf; ERIC, ERIC No. ED475510

(PDF: 140kb)

Online Workshop on Web-Based Training Demonstration CD

Hurth, J., Diefendorf, M., Fire, N., & Kraus, R.

Take a beach retreat and dive into a sea of information on the Web-Based Training demo CD. The CD presents an online workshop: an overview to WBT, tools for creating WBT and a process for designing and producing WBT. (online workshop)

NECTAC, (2002).

Availability: www.nectac.org/~wbtdemo

Funding Early Childhood Mental Health Services & Supports

Wishmann, A., Kates, D., & Kaufmann, R.

This document was prepared for the Center for Mental Health Services, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, and Child Adolescent and Family Branch, U. S. Department of Health and Human Services. [The full text of this resource is available on-line at http://gucchd.georgetown.edu/72441.html ]

Georgetown University Child Development Center, (March 2001), 76 pp.

Availability: http://gucchd.georgetown.edu/72441.html

Design Considerations for State TA Systems

Trohanis, P. L.

This three-part workbook is intended to serve as a planning resource for state officials to help them think strategically about the coherent design and effective operation of their technical assistance (TA) systems. Part I: Foundations and Perspectives of TA Design provides background information about TA along with selected previously published readings presented in Part II: Three Selected Readings on TA. Part III: Workbook for TA Design includes a series of worksheets to be used as discussion tools for state planning teams. This planning resource aims to present the considerations of state TA systems design with the ultimate goal of improving the quality of local service programs and their results with children and youth with special needs, birth-21, and their families. The notebook and three-hole page format allows team members to easily use selected materials. State planning teams may copy and disseminate the materials as needed.

NECTAC, (2001), 90 pp.

Availability: Contact us

Making a Difference by Involving Fathers

Arndt, B. (Ed.)

Presents stories shared by fathers about their views and experiences being fathers of children with disabilities

Early Childhood Bulletin, Summer 2001, 6 pp.

Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/makingadifference.pdf

(PDF: 362kb)

Reflections on Early Childhood

deFosset, S., & Shields, M.

Three young adults with disabilities share their reflections on how their success and self-determination was shaped by their childhood experiences. This 10:46 minute video is available on VHS cassette. (The full transcript is available.)

NECTAS, (2001), 10:46 mins.

Availability: Contact us

The Evolution of Transition Policy for Young Children with Special Needs and Their Families: Past, Present, and Future

Rosenkoetter, S. E., Whaley, K. T., Hains, A. H., & Pierce, L.

Early childhood transition policies provide an excellent case study of the types of events that can lead to policy change over time. This article describes the types of early childhood transitions that have received policy development and the types that remain unguided by federal or state policy.

Topics in Early Childhood Special Education, 2001, 21(1), pp.3-15

Availability: Contact us

Areas of Agreement about Effective Practices Among Programs Serving Young Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders

Hurth, J., Shaw, E., Izeman, S., Whaley, K., & Rogers, S.

This journal reprint examines the commonalities and differences among nationally known critical program practices. This study presents preliminary results from a NECTAS-sponsored autism forum activity about areas of agreement about effective practice.

Infants and Young Children, 1999, 12(2), pp. 17-26.

Availability: Contact us

Embedding Personnel Development into Early Intervention Service Delivery: Elements in the Process

Striffler, N., & Fire, N.

This journal article reprint presents a model for planning and implementing a comprehensive system of personnel development that is inextricably linked to the service delivery system. It discusses the 12 key elements that comprise the model and the relationships among the elements. The authors outline potential benefits for providers, families, and state and community planners.

Infants and Young Children, 1999, 11(3), pp. 50-61.

Availability: Contact us

NECTAS Resource Collection on Autism Spectrum Disorders

Whaley, K., & Shaw, E. (Eds.)

A collection of materials to serve as a resource on autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). The packet includes several sections: full text of several articles that present an overview to ASDs, and that discuss treatment approaches; descriptions of national resources on ASDs; list of OSEP-funded early childhood projects that are developing and/or disseminating program models or model components for providing services to young children with ASDs and their families; descriptions of print and video resources on ASDs developed by OSEP-funded early childhood projects; and an annotated bibliography of resources focused on the following: overviews of ASDs; assessment and diagnosis; neurological, biological, and genetic influences; educational approaches and interventions; family, and sibling support; individual and family perspectives; and books on ASDs for children.

NECTAC, (1999), 181 pp.

Availability: http://www.eric.ed.gov/PDFS/ED440498.pdf

One Mother's Reflections: Recent Reading About Autism

Ziegler, M.

This issue of Early Childhood Bulletin was developed to provide parents and their professional partners serving on Interagency Coordinating Councils with a useful resource to disseminate to other parents and service providers and to suggest directions for further reading.

Early Childhood Bulletin, Winter 1999, 6 pp.

Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/ECbulautism.pdf

(PDF: 310kb)

Services for Young Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: Voices of Parents and Providers

Sperry, L., Whaley,. K., Shaw, E., & Brame, K.

This journal article reprint presents perspectives regarding service systems for children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. It identifies points of convergence in the area of collaboration, family support, financial issues, equity, early identification, advocacy, training, and transition. It discusses emergent themes analyzed from focus groups conducted at NECTAS-sponsored national meetings.

Infants and Young Children, 1999, 11(4), pp. 17-33.

Availability: Contact us for hard copy pricing

Conflict Management in Early Intervention: Problem-Solving Negotiation

Gittler, J., & Hurth, J.

This journal article reprint describes the use of the problem-solving negotiation model to resolve disputes arising under Part C of IDEA. It describes the need in early intervention systems for formal education and training in problem-solving negotiation. (Note: This article is a companion to the article "Conflict Management in Early Intervention: Procedural Safeguards and Mediation," listed below.)

Infants and Young Children, 1998, 11(1), pp. 28-36.

Availability: Contact us for hard copy pricing.

Conflict Management in Early Intervention: Procedural Safeguards and Mediation

Gittler, J., & Hurth, J.

This journal article reprint reports the findings of a study of conflict management in early intervention systems, and examines the use of mediation as an alternative or supplement to the use of administrative hearings and litigation. (Note: This article is a companion to the article "Conflict Management in Early Intervention: Problem-Solving Negotiation," listed above.)

Infants and Young Children, 1998, 11(1), pp. 15-27.

Availability: Contact us for hard copy pricing.

Constructing an Interagency Funding System for Early Intervention Services

Kates, D.

This journal reprint examines the major funding sources for early intervention services and the issues that arise when resources are combined, such as which funding source is first or last payer, the use of family resources, determination of medical necessity, and the provision of service coordination. Strategies to address these issues are discussed.

Infants and Young Children, 1998, 11(2), pp. 73-81.

Availability: Contact us

Family Experiences: Ways to Lead Change Through Telling Your Story

Gabbard, G.

This Early Childhood Bulletin focuses on ways parents can shape their stories so that key themes are emphasized and improvements are made within a program or system. The author includes key issues to consider in preparing and presenting a story.

Early Childhood Bulletin, Spring 1998, 6 pp.

Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/famexp.pdf

(PDF: 32kb)

Service Coordination Caseloads in State Early Intervention Systems

Hurth, J.

Describes four service coordination models used in state early intervention systems: dedicated service coordination, early interventionist and service coordination, interagency service coordination, and interim or intake service coordination. Examples of caseloads in states using these models are presented.

NECTAS Notes, No. 8, (1998), 6 pp.

Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/nnotes8.pdf

(PDF: 310kb)

Enhancing Family Roles in EI Programs

Popper, B.

This Early Childhood Bulletin explores issues to consider for involving the diversity of parents in the activities of their state interagency coordinating councils (ICCs) and the range of roles they can play.

Early Childhood Bulletin, October 1997, 4 pp.

Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/enhanfam.pdf

(PDF: 32kb)

Planning and Implementing a Finance System for Early Intervention Services

Striffler, N., Perry, D., & Kates, D.

The journal article reprint discusses an interactive process model and related technical assistance strategies for planning and implementing a finance system for early intervention services. The model emphasizes collaboration with key stakeholders, vision development, resource identification, problem analysis, strategy development, and implementation. The application of the planning process is detailed within the framework of three state case examples.

Infants and Young Children, 1997, 10(2), pp. 57-65.

Availability: Contact us

Resources Related to Children and Their Families Affected by Alcohol and Other Drugs (3rd Edition)

Melner, J., & Shackelford, J., et al.

Lists resources that serve young children and their families affected by substance use, including national training and information resources, state programs and agencies, and federal and private funding sources.

NECTAS, (1997), 24 pp.

Availability: Contact us

Comparison of Eligibility Policies for Infant/Toddler Programs and Preschool Special Education Programs

Harbin, G., Danaher, J., & Derrick, T.

Analyzes state Part H and Part B eligibility policies for discontinuity between the two policies, for the nature of the discontinuity, and for which children are most likely to be affected by the discontinuity.

Topics in Early Childhood Special Education, Winter 1994, 14(4), pp. 455-471.

Availability: Contact us

Planning for Successful Inservice Education for Local Early Childhood Programs

Trohanis, P. L.

Written for leadership personnel who design inservice education for personnel serving children, birth to 6 years of age, with disabilities and their families, the paper details an approach for developing an inservice plan.

Topics in Early Childhood Special Education, Fall 1994, 14(3), pp. 311-332.

Availability: Contact us

Guidelines and Recommended Practices for the Individualized Family Service Plan (2nd ed.)

This monograph presents identified best practices in the development of Individualized Family Service Plans (IFSP) as required for families who have young children with disabilities, by Public Law 99-457, the Education of Handicapped Act Amendments (1986).

NECTAS & Association for the Care of Children's Health, (1991), 200 pp. (approx.)

Availability: Contact us for hard copy pricing; and ERIC, ERIC (No. ED336907)

CBAM (Concerns-Based Adoption Model)

Loucks, S.

Presents a framework to describe changes people undergo as they adopt new programs, and how they can be helped to make those changes in an effective, efficient, and humanistic way.

TADS Outreach Series, Paper #2, (1983), 25 pp.

Availability: Contact us for hard copy pricing; and ERIC, ERIC No: ED233524

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	PUBLICATIONS Search Publications View by Title View by Subject Archived Publications
Download Adobe Acrobat Reader Contacts Topics Webinars Conferences Presentations Research & Reference eNotes Publications	Publications By Most Recent Date Printer-friendly Page Implementing and Sustaining an Effective Service Delivery Approach: Stages and Steps prepared by NECTAC This guide describes five major stages in the process of changing your state's service delivery approach and the critical considerations and steps that need to be addressed for each stage. While not a rigid sequence of activities, there is a logical flow. In actual implementation, the activities may cross stages and may be worked on simultaneously. Also, a change effort may begin at a later stage but back-track to do the work of the earlier stages. Outline of Stages and Steps (PDF: 225kb) (One-Page Handout) Implementing and Sustaining an Effective Service Delivery Approach: Stages and Steps (PDF: 477kb) (Complete text of Interactive Guide) NECTAC, (2011), 6 pp. Availability: The full online version includes greater detail and downloadable resource documents: http://www.nectac.org/effectiveservicedelivery/splash.asp Part C Updates: Selected Aspects of the Early Intervention Program for Infants and Toddlers with Disabilities, (Part C) of IDEA Danaher, J., Goode, S., & Lazara, A. (Eds.) This publication provides a compilation of resources on the Early Intervention Program for Infants and Toddlers with Disabilities (Part C) of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Section I contains information on Part C program administration, funding appropriations, and trend data related to the numbers of children served, the settings in which children receive services and the status of children exiting Part C from www.ideadata.org. Section II contains resources on Part C program implementation, including: federal regulations, states’ Part C rules, regulations, and policies, OSEP policy clarification letters, and a bibliography of selected online publications and journal articles related to the implementation of Part C published in 2010-2011. Section III includes federal and state level Part C program contact information. Previous Editions of the Part C Updates are available as well: Current Edition: 12th Edition (2011) (PDF: 1,792kb) 11th Edition (2010) (PDF: 3,746kb) 10th Edition (2008) (PDF: 4,000kb) 9th Edition (2007) (PDF: 4,765kb) 8th Edition (2006) (PDF: 3,507kb) 7th Edition (2005) (PDF: 3,023kb) 6th Edition (2004) (PDF: 21,784kb) 5th Edition (2003) (PDF: 12,989kb) 4th Edition (2002) via ERIC, ERIC no. ED474693; (PDF: 5,330kb) NECTAC, (2011), 66 pp. Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/partcupdate2011.pdf (PDF: 1792kb) Section 619 Profile Lazara, A., Danaher, J., Kraus, R., Goode, S., & Festa, C. (Eds.) The 2011 edition of this publication updates information provided by state coordinators on state policies, programs, and practices under the Preschool Grants Program (Section 619 of Part B) of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Information includes: program administration, funding, interagency coordination, personnel, transition, monitoring, use of IEPs/ IFSPs, family-centered services, standards and outcomes, pre-kindergarten programs, initiatives for special populations, and services in least restrictive environments (LRE). The volume also includes a compilation of information on the Section 619 program from other sources: federal and state policies, a bibliography of selected online publications and journal articles related to the implementation of Section 619 published in 2010-2011, contact information for state and jurisdictional program coordinators, and program data from www.ideadata.org. Previous editions of the Section 619 Profile are available as well: Current Edition: 18th Edition (2011) (PDF: 2,468kb) 17th Edition (2010) (PDF: 3,182kb) 16th Edition (2008-2009) (PDF: 3,385kb) 15th Edition (2007) (PDF: 4,429kb) 14th Edition (2006) (PDF: 3,173kb) 13th Edition (2005) (PDF: 1,077kb) 12th Edition (2003) (PDF: 5,332kb) 11th Edition (2002) via ERIC, ERIC No. ED474692; (PDF: 4,124kb) NECTAC, (2011), 80 pp. Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/sec619_2011.pdf (PDF: 2,468kb) The Importance and Outcomes of Early Intervention for Infants and Toddlers with Disabilities and their Families prepared by Sue Goode, Martha Diefendorf and Siobhan Colgan The Infants and Toddlers with Disabilities Program (Part C) of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) was created in 1986 to enhance the development of infants and toddlers with disabilities, minimize potential developmental delay, and reduce educational costs to our society by minimizing the need for special education services as children with disabilities reach school age. These fact sheets provide brief overviews of the Part C program and facts from the research on early brain development, the importance of intervening early, the outcomes of early intervention, and current unmet needs. They are meant to be used as a tool to communicate with policymakers, pediatricians, families, and community leaders about the importance of high quality services for infants and toddlers with or at-risk for developmental delays and their families. NECTAC, (2011) Availability: Importance: The Importance of Early Intervention for Infants and Toddlers with Disabilities and their Families (2011) (PDF: 479kb) Outcomes: The Outcomes of Early Intervention for Infants and Toddlers with Disabilities and their Families (2011) (PDF: 483kb) Evaluation Summary of the Expanding Opportunities Interagency Inclusion Initiative: Increasing and Enhancing Access, Participation and Supports for All Children in High Quality Inclusive Programs and Services The National Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center This paper describes the impetus for creating the Expanding Opportunities Interagency Inclusion Initiative and achievements to date in identifying and implementing effective and efficient inclusion strategies in the participating states. NECTAC, (2011), 8 pp. Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/exp_opps_eval_summary.pdf (PDF: 561kb) States' Accountability and Progress in Serving Young Children with Disabilities Kasprzak, C., Hurth, J., Rooney, R., Goode, S. E., Danaher, J. C., Whaley, K. T., Ringwalt, S. S., & Cate, D. Since the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) was reauthorized in 2004, states have been working to enhance their accountability systems in order to gather more meaningful data about the quality of their early intervention and early childhood special education programs, as well as the results/outcomes these programs are achieving for young children with disabilities and their families. This article uses trend data reported by the states on their annual performance reports (APRs) for FFY 2005-06 through FFY 2008-09 to provide an overview of the progress they have made on indicators related to early identification, timely provision of services in natural environments, early childhood transition, and early childhood outcomes. It includes information about the challenges states have faced, the improvement strategies they have implemented, and implications for the future. Topics in Early Childhood Special Education. Advance online publication, May 20, 2011. doi:10.1177/0271121411408119 Availability: Sage Journals Online at http://tec.sagepub.com/content/early/2011/05/19/0271121411408119.abstract Part C Lead Agencies Danaher, J. Part C of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) requires that the governor of each participating state/jurisdiction designate a Lead Agency for the purpose of carrying out: general administration and supervision; identification and coordination of all available resources; assignment of financial responsibility to the appropriate agencies; development of procedures to ensure that services are provided in a timely manner pending resolution of any disputes; resolution of intra- and interagency disputes; and, development of formal interagency agreements. NECTAC Notes, No. 26, (2011), 4 pp. Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/nnotes26.pdf (PDF: 824kb) Eligibility Policies and Practices for Young Children Under Part B of IDEA Danaher, J. IDEA offers special provisions for states to identify children younger than school age who are eligible for special education and related services. In addition to the Part B disability categories used for school aged students, states may use Developmental Delay (DD), or a term of their choosing, for ages three through nine or a subset thereof. This paper discusses the options states have and analyzes their current policies. A table of the eligibility criteria with links to source documents for the states and District of Columbia is an Attachment to the paper. NECTAC Notes, No. 27, (2011), 21 pp. Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/nnotes27.pdf (PDF: 1061kb) NECTAC Technical Assistance Model for Long-Term Systems Change: Three State Examples Kasprzak, C., Hurth, J., Lucas, A., Marshall, J., Terrell, A., & Jones, E. The NECTAC TA Model for Long-Term Systems Change (LTSC) is grounded in conceptual frameworks in the literature on systems change and systems thinking. The NECTAC conceptual framework uses a logic model approach to change developed specifically for states’ infant and toddler early intervention programs and preschool special education service systems, designed to benefit young children with disabilities, from birth through age 5, and their families. NECTAC has supported many states over the last seven years in implementing systems change resulting in improvements for systems that serve young children with disabilities and their families. Three examples are presented in this document. The first focuses on building a system for measuring child outcomes, the second focuses on building an effective general supervision and monitoring system, and the third focuses on ensuring high quality family centered services through reviewing the quality of Individualized Family Service Plans (IFSPs). Data collected for this paper was gathered through interviews, surveys, and email communications with state Part C and Section 619 Coordinators as well as NECTAC TA providers involved in supporting these states’ initiatives. An executive summary of this document is are available as well: Full Report: NECTAC TA Model for Long-Term Systems Change: Three State Examples (2010) (PDF: 2,759kb) Executive Summary: NECTAC TA Model for Long-Term Systems Change: Three State Examples (Executive Summary) (2010) (PDF: 1,524kb) NECTAC, (2010), 8 pp. Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/ltsc3states.pdf (PDF: 2759kb) Quality Indicators of Inclusive Programs/Practices: A Compilation of Selected Resources Cate, D., Diefendorf, M., McCullough, K., Peters, M., & Whaley, K. Available resources and indicators of high quality inclusive practices are presented in this compilation. Assembling many different resources in one place allows for easy comparison of potential indicators of quality. Excerpts and adaptations of the resources are intended to provide some familiarity with the content of each resource and encourage further examination via links to more complete information. National and state-developed resources contained within this document have been designed for a variety of audiences, and may be useful for families, practitioners, program administrators, technical assistance personnel, researchers, and state administrators. NECTAC, (2010), 34pp. Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/qualityindicatorsinclusion.pdf (PDF: 2,000kb) Essential Elements of High Performing, High Quality Part C Systems Lucas, A., Hurth, J. & Kasprzak, C. NECTAC was asked to identify essential elements for supporting high performance and provision of high quality early intervention Part C services as determined by the Annual Performance Review (APR) required under IDEA. To respond, NECTAC interviewed one state and conducted a focus group with four other states that have consistently met requirements on the APR indicators and are maintaining effective, efficient practices. Additionally, the NECTAC review of states’ APR early childhood indicators and technical assistance experience also helped inform the identification of commonalities across states that could be considered essential elements of a high performing Part C system NECTAC Notes, No. 25, (2010), 4 pp. Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/nnotes25.pdf (PDF: 756kb) Autism in the Classroom: A Group of Students Changing in Population and Presentation Boyd. B. A. & Shaw, E. This article discusses the impact of the growing rate of children diagnosed with autism on early intervention programs and the public school system. It includes an overview of the characteristics of autism, research on early behavioral indicators of infants and toddlers at risk for autism, indicators that may be overlooked in older children, and educational implications of the disorder. Current and pending federal policy initiatives related to autism are also discussed. Preventing School Failure, 54(4), pp. 211-219, May 2010. doi:10.1080/10459881003744552 Availability: Informaworld at http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/10459881003744552 NECTAC TA Collaborations Diefendorf, M. This paper highlights several current collaborative activities of the National Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center (NECTAC). There are many specific examples of TA collaborations that take place on a regular basis; the seven examples presented here were selected to represent different types of collaboration. The descriptions were developed for the OSEP/OESE Leveraging Resources Meeting, Washington, DC, April 13-14, 2010 and were included in handouts at the Improving Early Learning Workgroup sessions at that meeting. NECTAC, (May 2010), 8 pp. Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/nectac_ta_collaborations.pdf (PDF: 244kb) Evaluation Highlights: Client Feedback March 2009 - March 2010 Kasprzak, C., Marshall, J., Terrell, A., & Jones, E. The NECTAC Evaluation Unit collects and analyzes data to describe the quantity and nature of the technical assistance services provided by NECTAC staff. The Unit evaluates the quality and relevance of NECTAC services and products and whether TA recipients use the information and resources gained to improve state and local systems and services. In addition, in February 2010, a national survey was conducted by an independent external evaluator with all primary clients (Part C and Section 619 Coordinators from all states and jurisdictions) regardless of their level of participation in NECTAC TA. The highlights included in this report include data from both internal and external evaluation efforts from March 2009 to March 2010. NECTAC, (April 2010), 4 pp. Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/nectac_eval_highlights_2010.pdf (PDF: 722kb) Expanding Opportunities: An Interagency Inclusion Initiative Prepared by NECTAC Research has shown that both young children with disabilities and their peers benefit from participating together in quality programs and community activities. However, inclusive opportunities for young children with disabilities are often not systematic, comprehensive or necessarily of high quality. Four federal agency partners recognized the need to promote collaborative efforts in states that would result in high quality inclusive opportunities for all children and families. They created the Expanding Opportunities Initiative and supported it through the coordinated efforts of their technical assistance (TA) resources. This interagency inclusion initiative began in 2005 and has continued to be supported by the federal partners each year. NECTAC, (March 2010), 2 pp. Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/nectac_eval_expopps.pdf (PDF: 340kb) Evaluating SPP/APR Improvement Activities Prepared for the OSEP Systems and Improvement Planning Priority Team by NECTAC and the RRC Program This document is intended to assist State Education Agency (SEA) and Lead Agency (LA) staff and technical assistance providers in designing a meaningful evaluation for the State Performance Plan (SPP)/Annual Performance Report (APR) improvement activities. It provides 1) information about the relevance of evaluation in the context of improvement planning and strategic systems thinking; 2) guidance on selecting an appropriate design for evaluating different types of improvement activities and; 3) additional resources and tools that support the overall design, implementation and evaluation of the SPP which may serve as a State's blueprint for systems improvement. NECTAC, (2009), 13 pp. Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/evaluatingsppapractivities.pdf (PDF: 190kb) Evaluation Highlights: Client Feedback September 2006 - October 2009 Kasprzak, C., Marshall, J., Terrell, A., & Jones, E. The NECTAC Evaluation Unit collects and analyzes data to describe the quantity and nature of the technical assistance services provided by NECTAC staff. The Unit determines the quality and relevance of NECTAC services and products and whether clients use NECTAC Technical Assistance (TA) to improve state and local systems and services. An external evaluation was conducted with all primary clients (Part C and Section 619 Coordinators from all states and jurisdictions) regardless of their level of participation in NECTAC TA. The highlights included in this report include data from October 1, 2006 to September 30, 2009. NECTAC, (December 2009), 4 pp. Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/nectac_eval_highlights_report.pdf (PDF: 320kb) Queries: Screening and Early Identification of Autism Spectrum Disorders Shaw, E. & Hatton, D. (Eds.). In response to interest from the National Professional Development Center on Autism Spectrum Disorders (NPDC-ASD), NECTAC queried state Part C and Section 619 coordinators regarding screening measures, diagnostic instruments and procedures, and trends in identifying young children with ASD under the age of five years. NECTAC collaborated with the NPDC-ASD to develop and refine a series of questions and then to conduct an on-line survey during a two week period in November 2008. The survey was opened again in August 2009 to allow responses from additional states. Individual states are not identified in this report. NECTAC. (2009). 7 pp. Availability: http://www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/queries/queries_asdscreening.pdf (PDF: 896kb) NECTAC Technical Assistance Model for Long-Term Systems Change Kahn, L., Hurth, J., Diefendorf, M., Kasprzak, C., Lucas, A., & Ringwalt, S. The National Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center (NECTAC) was charged by the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) from 2001-2006 to develop, implement, and evaluate an approach to technical assistance that would result in sustainable systems change in state Early Intervention and Preschool Special Education programs served under the early childhood provisions of IDEA. Even with the individualized nature of the systems change work with states, and with the variation across plans on a number of dimensions, NECTAC was able to determine the most effective strategies relating to the development and implementation processes for producing better results. The most important lessons learned are incorporated into the description of the model in this paper and can be applied to future technical assistance with states on system change initiatives. NECTAC, (June 2009), 26 pp. Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/tamodel.pdf (PDF: 792kb) Thinking Points: A Synthesis of Ideas About the Change Process (Topics: An occasional paper on the literature and practice of Technical Assistance) Hurth, J. & Goode, S. (Eds.) This series, Topics in TA, is being produced by NECTAC staff to share with our colleagues and others who are interested in the research on and practice of technical assistance. We will address various topics drawing from relevant literature and our experience in providing technical assistance. The impetus for this series is in large part to honor our late director, Pascal 'Pat' Trohanis, who guided and inspired us for 35 years. Pat was a consummate collaborator and greatly enjoyed sharing with and learning from our TA colleagues in and outside of the OSEP-funded TA & Dissemination network. This first paper is one he originally prepared to share with that network and concerns systemic changes in service systems. We welcome your comments on this paper and the series. NECTAC, (2009), 4pp. Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/tatopics/topics_thinkingpoints.pdf (PDF: 830kb) The Evolution of the National Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center Gallagher, J. J., Danaher, J. C., & Clifford, R. M. This review traces the evolution from 1971 to the present of a national technical assistance (TA) program to support the creation, expansion, and improvement of services for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers with special needs. From its beginning as a TA resource for demonstration projects, to linking outreach projects' expertise with state efforts to expand services, to supporting national constituencies across the research, development, and policy communities, to promoting program improvement and accountability for results, the OSEP-funded national early childhood TA center has been an important piece of a comprehensive infrastructure for early childhood special education. Through its collaboration with other agencies' early childhood TA programs, the National Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center is committed to influencing the development of an infrastructure for early childhood to better serve all of our children. Topics in Early Childhood Special Education, 29(1), 7-23, 2009. doi: 10.1177/0271121408330931 Availability: Sage Journals Online at http://tec.sagepub.com/content/29/1/7.abstract The National Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center Model for Long-Term Systems Change Kahn, L., Hurth, J., Kasprzak, C. M., Diefendorf, M. J., Goode, S. E., & Ringwalt, S. S. The National Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center was charged by the U.S. Department of Education's Office of Special Education Programs from October 2001 through September 2006 to develop, implement, and evaluate an approach to technical assistance (TA) that would result in sustainable systems change in state early intervention and preschool special education programs served under the early childhood provisions of Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. Both process and summative evaluations were conducted over the 5-year contract period. The TA Model for Long-Term Systems Change was found to result in improvements in state and local infrastructures, personnel development systems, practices, and outcomes for children and families. The resulting model is a legacy that Pat Trohanis leaves to the field of technical assistance. Topics in Early Childhood Special Education, 29(1), 24-39, 2009. doi: 10.1177/0271121409334039 Availability: Sage Journals Online at http://tec.sagepub.com/content/29/1/24.abstract Developmental Screening and Assessment Instruments with an Emphasis on Social and Emotional Development for Young Children Ages Birth through Five Ringwalt, S. The screening instruments included focus on the social-emotional developmental domain as well as those that address multiple developmental domains. The screening instruments are further sub-divided into those which must be administered by professionals and those that may be completed by family members or other caregivers. A list of social-emotional assessment instruments that must be administered by professionals is also provided. The information for each instrument includes a description, the age range for which the instrument was validated, the time to administer, the scoring procedure, psychometric properties, and requirements for administrators, and a link to, or address for, the publisher or source of more information. NECTAC, (2008), 20 pp. Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/screening.pdf (PDF: 950kb) Queries: Personnel Certification and Specialized Service Providers for ASD Danaher, J., Shaw, E., & Lazara, A. (Eds.). In response to states’ interest, NECTAC queried Part C and Section 619 Coordinators regarding certification or endorsements for personnel working with children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and how states provide services for children diagnosed with ASD. NECTAC, (2008), 5pp. Availability: http://www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/queries/queries_asd.pdf (PDF: 887kb) Fact Sheet: Vulnerable Young Children Shaw, E. and Goode, S. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) requires states participating in Part C to refer for early intervention (EI) services any child under the age of 3 who is involved in a substantiated case of child abuse or neglect; or is identified as affected by illegal substance abuse, or withdrawal symptoms resulting from prenatal drug exposure. The Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act Reauthorization Act (CAPTA) also requires states that receive CAPTA funds to refer children under age 3 who are involved in a substantiated case of abuse or neglect to Part C early intervention services. This fact sheet provides data on infants, toddlers and young children who are experiencing these kinds of risk factors. It includes a section highlighting factors that have been found to promote positive outcomes for all vulnerable young children and their families.. NECTAC, (2008), 7 pp. Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/factsheet_vulnerable.pdf (PDF: 253kb) Progress in Providing Services to Young Children With Special Needs and Their Families: An Overview to and Update on the Implementation of the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) Trohanis, P. L. This article updates our 2002 paper of the same title. It presents a historical overview of the following three IDEA programs and their major accomplishments in providing services to infants, toddlers, and preschoolers with special needs and their families: (1) Part C, the Program for Infants and Toddlers With Disabilities, (2) Part B, Section 619, the Preschool Grants Program, and (3) Part D, National Activities to Improve Education of Children with Disabilities Journal of Early Intervention, 30(2), 140-151, 2008. doi: 10.1177/105381510731205 Availability: Sage Journals Online at http://jei.sagepub.com/content/30/2/140.abstract (PDF: 100kb) A Framework for Developing and Sustaining a Part C Finance System Greer, M., Taylor, A., & Mackey Andrews, S. D. This paper summarizes the fiscal challenges that this legislation presents and proposes a framework for analyzing, adjusting, and maintaining a flexible and self-regulating finance system to support Part C early intervention services for infants and toddlers and their families. The framework design features four phases of work to help agencies understand the issues and make informed decisions for on-going development and support of a Part C finance system. NECTAC Notes, No. 23, (2007), 10 pp. Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/nnotes23.pdf (PDF: 158kb) To Fee or Not to Fee: That is the Question! Mackey Andrews, S. D. & Taylor, A. This paper summarizes the current financing difficulties faced by state and local Part C agencies, and it examines in closer detail aspects and implications of Family Cost Participation, under which some family resources may be accessed to distribute the cost of intervention services provided to the client family. NECTAC Notes, No. 22, (2007), 16 pp. Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/nnotes22.pdf (PDF: 177kb) State and Jurisdictional Eligibility Definitions for Infants and Toddlers With Disabilities Under IDEA Shackelford, J. Analyzes states' Part C definitions of developmental delay, established conditions, and biological and environmental risk categories. A chart lists definitions and identifies states serving at-risk children. NECTAC Notes, No. 21, (2006), 16 pp. Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/nnotes21.pdf (PDF: 207kb) Brain Research and Early Childhood Development: A Selection of Online Resources - Minbibliography Goode, S. (Ed.) In recent years, research on young children’s early brain development has underscored its importance for later development. This minibibliography includes a selection of online resources that discuss some the latest developments in this field and related educational policy issues. NECTAC, (2006), 6 pp. Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/brainresearch.pdf (PDF: 100kb) Homelessness and Young Children: Early Childhood Care and Education - Minibibliography Goode, S., & Shaw, E. This annotated minibibliography provides a selection of resources that address the needs and educational rights of young children experiencing homelessness, as well as strategies for working with these vulnerable children and their families in early childhood care and education programs. NECTAC, (2006), 8 pp. Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/homeless.pdf (PDF: 106kb) Assistive Technology and Diversity Issues - Minibibliography Goode, S. (Ed.) An annotated bibliography presenting resources related to assistive technology and diversity. NECTAC, (2005), 5 pp. Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/at.pdf (PDF: 93kb) Challenges in Evaluating Psychosocial Interventions for Autistic Spectrum Disorders Lord, C., Wagner, A., Rogers, S., Szatmari, P., Aman, M., Charman, T., Dawson, G., Durand, V., Grossman, L., Guthrie, D., Harris, S., Kasari, C., Marcus, L., Murphy, S., Odom, S., Pickles, A., Scahill, L., Shaw, E., Siegel, B., & Sigman, M. This paper provides a summary of a 2002 National Institutes of Health meeting "Research on Psychosocial and Behavioral Interventions in Autism: Confronting the Methodological Challenges", including presentations, discussions and recommendations to federal and private agencies involved in either funding or supporting research and training in autism. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, December 2005, 35(6), pp. 695-708. Availability: Contact us Early Identification of Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Children (Aged 0-5) - Minibibliography Goode, S., Shaw, E., Ringwalt, S., & Ayankoya, B. (Eds.) An annotated bibliography presenting resources related to the early identification of culturally and linguistically diverse children. NECTAC, (2005), 9 pp. Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/earlyidmini.pdf (PDF: 103kb) Funding of Assistive Technology for Infants, Toddlers and Young Children with Disabilities - Minibibliography Goode, S. (Ed.) An annotated bibliography presenting resources exploring the various assistive technology funding sources for infants, toddlers and young children with disabilities. NECTAC, (2005), 5 pp. Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/atfunding.pdf (PDF: 90kb) Policy Issues and Intervention Strategies for Young Children Prenatally Exposed to Drugs or Alcohol: Selected Resources Shaw, E., & Goode, S. An annotated bibliography presenting resources related to policy issues and early intervention strategies for children affected by illegal substance abuse, or withdrawal symptoms resulting from prenatal drug exposure. NECTAC, (2005), 10 pp. Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/prenatalexp.pdf (PDF: 108kb) Selected Resources on Financing Early Childhood Systems to Support Inclusive Options for Young Children with Disabilities - Minibibliography Whaley, K., Goode, S., & deFosset, S. An annotated bibliography presenting resources related to financing early childhood systems to support inclusive options for young children with disabilities. NECTAC, (2005), 5 pp. Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/financemini.pdf (PDF: 91kb) The Impact of Abuse, Neglect and Foster Care Placement on Infants, Toddlers and Young Children: Selected Resources - Minibibliography Shaw, E., & Goode, S. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) requires states participating in Part C to refer for early intervention (EI) services any child under the age of 3 who is involved in a substantiated case of child abuse or neglect. The Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act Reauthorization Act (CAPTA) also requires states that receive CAPTA funds to refer children under age 3 who are involved in a substantiated case of abuse or neglect to Part C early intervention services. This minibibliography contains a selection of resources related specifically to the incidence and impact of abuse or neglect on very young children, and related policy issues. NECTAC, (2005), 13 pp. Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/abuseneglect.pdf (PDF: 132kb) The Long Term Economic Benefits Of High Quality Early Childhood Intervention Programs - Minibibliography Diefendorf, M., & Goode, S. An extensive body of research indicates that high quality early intervention for at-risk infants, toddlers and young children and their families is a sound economic investment. Studies have found a number of long-term cost savings in terms of decreased grade repetition, reduced special education spending, enhanced productivity, lower welfare costs, increased tax revenues, and lower juvenile justice costs. This minibibliography provides a selection of articles, reports, and book chapters that review some of the major findings on this topic. Some of the included studies focus on services for young children with disabilities, although most address early intervention for children who are at risk for adverse developmental outcomes due to poverty and other environmental factors. NECTAC, (2005), 9 pp. Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/econbene.pdf (PDF: 112kb) Transitions From Infant Toddler Services to Preschool Education - Minibibliography Whaley, K., & Goode, S. An annotated bibliography presenting resources related to transitions from infant toddler services to preschool education. NECTAC, (2005), 9 pp. Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/transition.pdf (PDF: 105kb) Recruiting and Retaining Diverse Parent Representation on Interagency Coordinating Councils Swett, J., Xiong, D., Ayankoya, B., and Shackelford, J. This document describes several ways ICCs can encourage and expand diverse parent representation on councils and committees. Although it specifically concerns parent members, this paper can also be useful for general recruitment of diverse members. NECTAC Notes, No. 17, (2004), 8 pp. Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/nnotes17.pdf (PDF: 62kb) Revisiting a Comparison of Eligibility Policies for Infant/Toddler Programs and Preschool Special Education Programs Danaher, J., Shackelford, J., & Harbin, G. In this study, the authors repeated an earlier analysis and comparison of state eligibility policies under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), and the preschool special education program, Part B, Section 619, of IDEA. The impact of federal and state policy changes in the intervening years on the prospects for continuity of eligibility as children move from Part C to Part B was investigated. The analysis revealed fewer states in which discontinuity was a concern (21, down from 27). States in which continuity was either "very likely" or "somewhat likely" increased from 24 to 30. The authors discuss policy options affecting continuity of eligibility across the early childhood programs of IDEA and the relevance of their findings for realizing the purposes of IDEA. Topics in Early Childhood Special Education, 2004, 24(2), pp. 59-67 Availability: Contact us Including Preschool-Age Children With Disabilities in Community Settings: A Resource Packet (3rd Edition) deFosset, S. (Ed.) A variety of resources on: perspectives on inclusionary practices; the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act related to child care services for children with disabilities; and the basis in federal law for inclusive practices. Includes information about selected federally funded projects that focus on inclusion issues and about selected videos, training materials, and other resources supporting inclusion. NECTAC, (2004), 82 pp. Availability: Contact us State ICC Overview: Policies, Programs, and Practices of State Interagency Coordinating Councils Under IDEA Shackelford, J. (Ed.) Presents information on the composition and membership, parent roles and participation, structure and organization, and roles and functions of the ICCs in 40 states and jurisdictions. It includes information about local or regional ICCs and their relationship to the state ICC. The full text of those portions of the federal regulations (prior to reauthorization) pertaining to state ICCs is included. NECTAC, (2003), 71 pp. Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/SICCoverview.pdf (PDF: 1,259kb) Progress in Providing Services to Young Children with Special Needs and Their Families: An Overview to and Update on the Implementation of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) Trohanis, P. L. This paper presents a historical look at IDEA and its progress in providing services to young children with special needs and their families. (PDF: 659kb) NECTAC Notes, No. 12, (2002), 18 pp. Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/nnotes12.pdf; ERIC, ERIC No. ED471882 (PDF: 659kb) Informed Clinical Opinion Shackelford, J. This paper looks at the term "informed clinical opinion" and addresses its meaning in the context of Part C, its effect on the determination of eligibility and why its documentation is necessary. NECTAC Notes, No. 10, (2002), 4 pp. Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/nnotes10.pdf; ERIC, ERIC No. ED471885 (PDF: 49kb) Assuring the Family's Role on the Early Intervention Team: Explaining Rights and Safeguards Hurth, J. L., & Goff, P. E. Presents a synthesis of innovative practices and ideas for explaining procedural safeguards to families in ways that are supportive of their role as partners in the early intervention process. NECTAC, (2002), 13 pp. Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/assuring.pdf; ERIC, ERIC No. ED475510 (PDF: 140kb) Online Workshop on Web-Based Training Demonstration CD Hurth, J., Diefendorf, M., Fire, N., & Kraus, R. Take a beach retreat and dive into a sea of information on the Web-Based Training demo CD. The CD presents an online workshop: an overview to WBT, tools for creating WBT and a process for designing and producing WBT. (online workshop) NECTAC, (2002). Availability: www.nectac.org/~wbtdemo Funding Early Childhood Mental Health Services & Supports Wishmann, A., Kates, D., & Kaufmann, R. This document was prepared for the Center for Mental Health Services, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, and Child Adolescent and Family Branch, U. S. Department of Health and Human Services. [The full text of this resource is available on-line at http://gucchd.georgetown.edu/72441.html ] Georgetown University Child Development Center, (March 2001), 76 pp. Availability: http://gucchd.georgetown.edu/72441.html Design Considerations for State TA Systems Trohanis, P. L. This three-part workbook is intended to serve as a planning resource for state officials to help them think strategically about the coherent design and effective operation of their technical assistance (TA) systems. Part I: Foundations and Perspectives of TA Design provides background information about TA along with selected previously published readings presented in Part II: Three Selected Readings on TA. Part III: Workbook for TA Design includes a series of worksheets to be used as discussion tools for state planning teams. This planning resource aims to present the considerations of state TA systems design with the ultimate goal of improving the quality of local service programs and their results with children and youth with special needs, birth-21, and their families. The notebook and three-hole page format allows team members to easily use selected materials. State planning teams may copy and disseminate the materials as needed. NECTAC, (2001), 90 pp. Availability: Contact us Making a Difference by Involving Fathers Arndt, B. (Ed.) Presents stories shared by fathers about their views and experiences being fathers of children with disabilities Early Childhood Bulletin, Summer 2001, 6 pp. Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/makingadifference.pdf (PDF: 362kb) Reflections on Early Childhood deFosset, S., & Shields, M. Three young adults with disabilities share their reflections on how their success and self-determination was shaped by their childhood experiences. This 10:46 minute video is available on VHS cassette. (The full transcript is available.) NECTAS, (2001), 10:46 mins. Availability: Contact us The Evolution of Transition Policy for Young Children with Special Needs and Their Families: Past, Present, and Future Rosenkoetter, S. E., Whaley, K. T., Hains, A. H., & Pierce, L. Early childhood transition policies provide an excellent case study of the types of events that can lead to policy change over time. This article describes the types of early childhood transitions that have received policy development and the types that remain unguided by federal or state policy. Topics in Early Childhood Special Education, 2001, 21(1), pp.3-15 Availability: Contact us Areas of Agreement about Effective Practices Among Programs Serving Young Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders Hurth, J., Shaw, E., Izeman, S., Whaley, K., & Rogers, S. This journal reprint examines the commonalities and differences among nationally known critical program practices. This study presents preliminary results from a NECTAS-sponsored autism forum activity about areas of agreement about effective practice. Infants and Young Children, 1999, 12(2), pp. 17-26. Availability: Contact us Embedding Personnel Development into Early Intervention Service Delivery: Elements in the Process Striffler, N., & Fire, N. This journal article reprint presents a model for planning and implementing a comprehensive system of personnel development that is inextricably linked to the service delivery system. It discusses the 12 key elements that comprise the model and the relationships among the elements. The authors outline potential benefits for providers, families, and state and community planners. Infants and Young Children, 1999, 11(3), pp. 50-61. Availability: Contact us NECTAS Resource Collection on Autism Spectrum Disorders Whaley, K., & Shaw, E. (Eds.) A collection of materials to serve as a resource on autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). The packet includes several sections: full text of several articles that present an overview to ASDs, and that discuss treatment approaches; descriptions of national resources on ASDs; list of OSEP-funded early childhood projects that are developing and/or disseminating program models or model components for providing services to young children with ASDs and their families; descriptions of print and video resources on ASDs developed by OSEP-funded early childhood projects; and an annotated bibliography of resources focused on the following: overviews of ASDs; assessment and diagnosis; neurological, biological, and genetic influences; educational approaches and interventions; family, and sibling support; individual and family perspectives; and books on ASDs for children. NECTAC, (1999), 181 pp. Availability: http://www.eric.ed.gov/PDFS/ED440498.pdf One Mother's Reflections: Recent Reading About Autism Ziegler, M. This issue of Early Childhood Bulletin was developed to provide parents and their professional partners serving on Interagency Coordinating Councils with a useful resource to disseminate to other parents and service providers and to suggest directions for further reading. Early Childhood Bulletin, Winter 1999, 6 pp. Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/ECbulautism.pdf (PDF: 310kb) Services for Young Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: Voices of Parents and Providers Sperry, L., Whaley,. K., Shaw, E., & Brame, K. This journal article reprint presents perspectives regarding service systems for children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. It identifies points of convergence in the area of collaboration, family support, financial issues, equity, early identification, advocacy, training, and transition. It discusses emergent themes analyzed from focus groups conducted at NECTAS-sponsored national meetings. Infants and Young Children, 1999, 11(4), pp. 17-33. Availability: Contact us for hard copy pricing Conflict Management in Early Intervention: Problem-Solving Negotiation Gittler, J., & Hurth, J. This journal article reprint describes the use of the problem-solving negotiation model to resolve disputes arising under Part C of IDEA. It describes the need in early intervention systems for formal education and training in problem-solving negotiation. (Note: This article is a companion to the article "Conflict Management in Early Intervention: Procedural Safeguards and Mediation," listed below.) Infants and Young Children, 1998, 11(1), pp. 28-36. Availability: Contact us for hard copy pricing. Conflict Management in Early Intervention: Procedural Safeguards and Mediation Gittler, J., & Hurth, J. This journal article reprint reports the findings of a study of conflict management in early intervention systems, and examines the use of mediation as an alternative or supplement to the use of administrative hearings and litigation. (Note: This article is a companion to the article "Conflict Management in Early Intervention: Problem-Solving Negotiation," listed above.) Infants and Young Children, 1998, 11(1), pp. 15-27. Availability: Contact us for hard copy pricing. Constructing an Interagency Funding System for Early Intervention Services Kates, D. This journal reprint examines the major funding sources for early intervention services and the issues that arise when resources are combined, such as which funding source is first or last payer, the use of family resources, determination of medical necessity, and the provision of service coordination. Strategies to address these issues are discussed. Infants and Young Children, 1998, 11(2), pp. 73-81. Availability: Contact us Family Experiences: Ways to Lead Change Through Telling Your Story Gabbard, G. This Early Childhood Bulletin focuses on ways parents can shape their stories so that key themes are emphasized and improvements are made within a program or system. The author includes key issues to consider in preparing and presenting a story. Early Childhood Bulletin, Spring 1998, 6 pp. Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/famexp.pdf (PDF: 32kb) Service Coordination Caseloads in State Early Intervention Systems Hurth, J. Describes four service coordination models used in state early intervention systems: dedicated service coordination, early interventionist and service coordination, interagency service coordination, and interim or intake service coordination. Examples of caseloads in states using these models are presented. NECTAS Notes, No. 8, (1998), 6 pp. Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/nnotes8.pdf (PDF: 310kb) Enhancing Family Roles in EI Programs Popper, B. This Early Childhood Bulletin explores issues to consider for involving the diversity of parents in the activities of their state interagency coordinating councils (ICCs) and the range of roles they can play. Early Childhood Bulletin, October 1997, 4 pp. Availability: www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/enhanfam.pdf (PDF: 32kb) Planning and Implementing a Finance System for Early Intervention Services Striffler, N., Perry, D., & Kates, D. The journal article reprint discusses an interactive process model and related technical assistance strategies for planning and implementing a finance system for early intervention services. The model emphasizes collaboration with key stakeholders, vision development, resource identification, problem analysis, strategy development, and implementation. The application of the planning process is detailed within the framework of three state case examples. Infants and Young Children, 1997, 10(2), pp. 57-65. Availability: Contact us Resources Related to Children and Their Families Affected by Alcohol and Other Drugs (3rd Edition) Melner, J., & Shackelford, J., et al. Lists resources that serve young children and their families affected by substance use, including national training and information resources, state programs and agencies, and federal and private funding sources. NECTAS, (1997), 24 pp. Availability: Contact us Comparison of Eligibility Policies for Infant/Toddler Programs and Preschool Special Education Programs Harbin, G., Danaher, J., & Derrick, T. Analyzes state Part H and Part B eligibility policies for discontinuity between the two policies, for the nature of the discontinuity, and for which children are most likely to be affected by the discontinuity. Topics in Early Childhood Special Education, Winter 1994, 14(4), pp. 455-471. Availability: Contact us Planning for Successful Inservice Education for Local Early Childhood Programs Trohanis, P. L. Written for leadership personnel who design inservice education for personnel serving children, birth to 6 years of age, with disabilities and their families, the paper details an approach for developing an inservice plan. Topics in Early Childhood Special Education, Fall 1994, 14(3), pp. 311-332. Availability: Contact us Guidelines and Recommended Practices for the Individualized Family Service Plan (2nd ed.) This monograph presents identified best practices in the development of Individualized Family Service Plans (IFSP) as required for families who have young children with disabilities, by Public Law 99-457, the Education of Handicapped Act Amendments (1986). NECTAS & Association for the Care of Children's Health, (1991), 200 pp. (approx.) Availability: Contact us for hard copy pricing; and ERIC, ERIC (No. ED336907) CBAM (Concerns-Based Adoption Model) Loucks, S. Presents a framework to describe changes people undergo as they adopt new programs, and how they can be helped to make those changes in an effective, efficient, and humanistic way. TADS Outreach Series, Paper #2, (1983), 25 pp. Availability: Contact us for hard copy pricing; and ERIC, ERIC No: ED233524
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