Findings from a national study of early intervention programs and toy libraries for handicapped children in Australia are summarized. After an introduction to theoretical concerns, chapter 2 reviews the rationale for early intervention and describes research on components of exemplary programs and on evaluation of the effectiveness of early intervention. Data collection procedures (site visits and questionnaires) are described. Summaries of the pattern of intervention in states and territories are presented for New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia, Western Australia, Tasmania, Northern Territory, and the Australian Capital Territory. The fifth chapter analyzes intervention approaches in terms of models, sponsorship, orientation, target population, and staffing patterns. Statistical information, gathered from questionnaires submitted by the directors of early intervention programs which met the study's definitional criteria, is also presented. A review of parent responses identifies areas of concern and unmet needs. Two chapters address the importance of play and the contributions of toy library services. A final chapter presents the report's conclusions on the concept and nature of early intervention; program issues (such as assessment and program monitoring); the service delivery system; and ongoing research and evaluation. Fifteen appendixes include sample questionnaires and the site visit interview/observation guide. (CL)