Intervention Programs for Young Handicapped Children in Europe: An Overview

Abstract

Early childhood and special education programs in the United States have roots in Western Europe and Great Britain. Many parallels now exist, and a period of cross-fertilization may be at hand. Socio-cultural forces, professional interests, and evolving practice have reached a stage at which Europe offers a great deal in the variety and quality of its programs and services. Five countries are represented in this topical issue of JDEC—Germany, England, France, Italy, and Swiizerland-each by a leading authority currently involved in both the policy and the practice of early childhood intervention. Dr. McCleary has worked closely with them in their countries and in the preparation of the articles that follow. In her overview she establishes a perspective on education in Europe generally and on specific conditions and practices at the growing-point.

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