Written for parents of handicapped children, the handbook describes the process for obtaining a free, appropriate public education for such children as set forth in Public Law 94-142 (Education for All Handicapped Children Act) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. An initial explanation of terms (such as "least restrictive environment" and "related services'" is followed by an overview of the process, including parental responsibilities. Subsequent sections address issues related to assessment, evaluation, placement, and the individualized education program (IEP). Definitions of handicapping conditions are provided. A discussion of parent participation in the IEP planning meeting includes three checklists for parents to use. A section on vocational education describes Public Law 94-482 (the Vocational Education Act Amendments of 1976) and discusses the relationship of the IEP to vocational goals. Information on vocational education assessment and on the nature and importance of the vocational IEP meeting is also provided. A final section discusses the due process hearing, including parental rights, school responsibilities, and the formal procedures involved. (JW)