Young Handicapped Children: Their Prevalence and Experiences with Early Intervention Services

Abstract

The present study assessed the prevalence of handicapping conditions among young children (0 through 4) In Ohio and explored the experiences these handicapped children and their families have had with early intervention services. Using a telephone interview procedure, parents from 1,551 families in Ohio having 2,133 children were administered a survey instrument. Results indicated that 6.1% of the young children had functionally handicapping conditions. Approximately two-thirds (63%) of these children had received early intervention services as a result of their conditions. Parents of those served reported that service was initiated soon after conditions were noticed and that they were satisfied with their quality. Planning implications for the general public, professionals, legislators, and administrators are discussed.

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