Special Education

Of great importance to many children is the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act—known as IDEA. Begun in 1975, this federal legislation's purpose is to provide a free appropriate public education for children with disabilities birth through 21.

• Part C of IDEA, known as Early Intervention, is for infants and young children with disabilities or at risk for disability, to age three. A team, including parents or guardians and other specialists, develops an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP).
• Part B of IDEA, for children age 3—21, a plan known as an IEP—Individualized Education Program—is developed for eligible children.
• Some children may also benefit from Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Acts of 1973, administered by the US Office of Civil Rights (OCR), which uses a slightly broader definition of disability.

Resources

• National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities (NICHCY), 800-695-0285
• Parent Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) – Parent Training and Information Centers in all states: 952-838-0190
• U.S. Office of Civil Rights (OCR)
• U.S. Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP)