Special Education
While all young children grow and change at their own rate, some children experience delays in their development. Special health conditions may affect children's development, too. Accessing early intervention services as early as possible will ensure the best developmental outcomes for these children.
Minnesota's early intervention system - Help Me Grow - includes two programs for eligible children:
Help Me Grow: Infant and Toddler Intervention are special services and supports for children birth through age two and their families.
Help Me Grow: Preschool Special Education is for eligible children ages three to five years.
Minnesota children eligible for Help Me Grow can receive services in their home, child care setting or school. Help Me Grow services are free to eligible families regardless of income or immigrant status.
Early childhood specialists will work with eligible children and families to plan the services and supports they need. These may include:
- Ways that a family can support their child's development at home
- Connections to community services and programs.
- Early identification, screening and assessment services
- Early Childhood Special Education
- Speech and Language Pathology
- Occupational Therapy
- Physical Therapy
- School Psychological Services
- Case management services
Children receiving Early Childhood Special Education Services during the early childhood years are offered a variety of service options based on their unique needs.