The importance of language training for young handicapped children is stressed, and the speech and language component of a mainstream program is described. Language is defined as the interrelation of cognitive perceptual organization, non-linguistic experiences, and linguistic experiences. Outlined are the various language programs used in the College Learning Laboratory Mainstream Language Program at the State University College at Buffalo, New York. Outlined are procedures for identification of children for mainstreaming, assessment (with comments on specific tests), on-going assessment, and intervention which includes auditory skill development, verbal expression development, and conceptual and abstract thinking development. (DB)