This monograph describes the basic physical/neurological examination of children with special needs and how such an exam fits into the multidisciplinary evaluation and development of individualized programming for such children. The first section addresses the importance of the medical history. Next, the basic exam is described, followed by consideration of communication between the physician and parents, subsequent clinic visits, and a brief consideration of common neurologic tests such as the computerized tomography (CT) scan and magnetic resonancy imaging (MRI) of the brain. Briefly summarized are common medications prescribed, especially anticonvulsants, and common diagnoses (e.g., hyperactivity, cerebral palsy, and seizure disorders). The importance of school-generated information for the physician and parental responsibilities in the medical management of the child are also stressed. (DB)