This article explores the use of the categorical label of learning disabled for determining eligibility for preschool special education programs. Specific concerns include definitional issues, the dangers of labeling and low expectation sets, failure to demonstrate movement through a continuum of services, and the efficacy of early intervention.…

This article presents information on the etiologies of learning disabilities in preschool children with impaired hearing; the etiologies of hearing impairments in preschool children with learning disabilities; estimated prevalence; aspects of identification, assessment, and educational programing; and an agenda for practice and research with this…

Epidemiological techniques were used to reanalyze studies that had longitudinally tracked preschool or kindergarten children, to determine results of screens for the identification of educationally at-risk children. A paradigm shift is recommended, away from longitudinal studies for predictive validity and toward risk analysis and interpretation.…

This survey of 232 parents of developmentally delayed or typical preschool children found that parent attitudes were favorable toward mainstreaming, regardless of their child's placement in a mainstreamed or segregated program. Compared to parents of segregated children, parents of mainstreamed children indicated stronger opinions about the…

This study of four preschool children (two typically developing, one physically disabled, one mildly developmentally delayed) found that use of a simultaneous prompting procedure was effective in teaching expressive word recognition to three of the students. Maintenance and generalization were also successful. (Author/JDD)

This article describes an ecocultural approach to assessing families of young children with developmental disabilities, drawing heavily on information about families' daily routines and accommodations. The role of place and context in assessment is discussed, and case material from two current projects is provided to illustrate the assessment and…

Effects of videotaped self-modeling on acquisition, maintenance, and generalization of the contractible copula "is" with preschool children with delayed language were assessed. All three participating students made and maintained clear gains in acquiring the target behavior and applying it in normal conversational usage. (Author/PB)

The methods of 27 studies focusing on toy play among young children with mental retardation were reviewed. Considerable variability was noted with respect to sample characteristics, contextual parameters, and type of measurement. Researchers frequently neglected to provide potentially useful methodological information. Suggestions for future…

A sample of 221 kindergarten children was administered tests of phonological processes and then subsequently measured for reading skill in third grade. Of 19 possible predictors, only rapid naming of letters, general ability, and discrimination of beginning sounds within words significantly contributed to prediction of reading outcome. (Author/JDD)

This study explored effects of teaching three novice trainers to teach three parents to implement milieu teaching with their preschool children who had language delays. Results demonstrated improved skills among trainers and increased use of the procedures by parents. Two of the three children showed increases in their targeted language responses…