When a preschooler is struggling, how do we figure out whether they need special education?
Preschool evaluation isn’t simply K–12 evaluation with younger children. Before kindergarten, we’re looking at development differently—and that changes the questions we ask, the areas we evaluate, and how eligibility may be determined.
In Part 4 of the Evaluation Series, we continue to look at federal eligibilities by taking a closer look at preschool evaluation and determining eligibility, including the developmental framework used with young children and why the general education curriculum isn’t the starting point it is for K–12 eligibility. And because eligibility requirements can vary from state to state, we’ll talk about why understanding your state’s rules and procedural safeguards matters when you’re navigating preschool evaluation.
Who Is This For?
Parents & Caregivers
If you’re wondering whether your preschooler may need an evaluation, what that evaluation should look like, or what happens when eligibility is considered, this is a place to start.
Parent Advocates & Attorneys
Build a stronger understanding of the developmental and eligibility considerations that apply before kindergarten.
Educators & Administrators
Understand how preschool evaluation differs from the K–12 eligibility process and why that distinction matters.
Evaluators
Take a closer look at assessment and eligibility considerations for preschool-aged children.
Speech-Language Pathologists & Related Service Providers
Understand how your area of expertise contributes to multidisciplinary preschool evaluation and eligibility decisions.
Students & Emerging Professionals
Build a practical foundation for understanding how eligibility is considered before a child enters the special education system.
Evaluation Series
Part 4: Preschool Evaluation & Eligibility
Before kindergarten, we aren’t asking exactly the same questions. Understanding what changes—and why—is an important part of understanding eligibility.