The Early Childhood Special Education Program serves children from birth to age six. If a parent or caregiver suspects that their child may have a developmental delay, teachers will test the child and, if necessary, personalize a program for him/her.

Specifically, teachers will test children’s speech and hearing, observe their behavior, and watch how they use their hands and feet. In addition to serving children, Early Childhood Special Education also teaches families to work with their children’s needs.

We use games and toys to stimulate children in the following areas:

• Learning

• Speech and Hearing Skills

• Hand and Foot Coordination

• Social Skills (such as sharing)

Services are provided in the child’s natural environment. That means that they can receive services wherever they need them. We see children at home, in daycare, at Head Start, or in other preschool programs. Teachers and therapists work with parents, preschool staff, and caregivers to support each child’s goals.

SKIP (Special Kids In Preschool) is the name used to describe services for children age three through five in preschool classes. Children with developmental delays can be with their peers, and still receive the special education services they need.

Children age birth to three who receive Special Education services will also be eligible for Early On.

More information can be found at: Build Up MI.