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Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE)

Intro

Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), early childhood special education services are provided to infants, toddlers and young children with disabilities or developmental delays from birth to kindergarten enrollment.

Services/Topics
Eligibility

Eligibility

Refer your child if you have any developmental concerns or worries. Services are free, no matter your income or citizenship status. You will be contacted by your local school district or cooperative for next steps and to see if your child is eligible.

Resources
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More Information

Services for babies and toddlers

In Minnesota, specially trained staff from local school districts or special education cooperatives provide services to eligible infants and toddlers and their families. These early intervention (Part C) services are free to eligible children and their families regardless of income or citizenship status.

Services are typically provided in the family's home space or anywhere the family spends their day. This can even include child care settings and the park.

Families are central to the planning and service delivery process. Outcomes for the plan are created based on families' concerns, priorities and resources.

Another part of services for babies, toddlers and families is Service Coordination. With the support of a Service Coordinator, families can make informed decisions about services, opportunities and additional resources available for their child and family. 

Services for age 3 to kindergarten enrollment

School districts and special education cooperatives provide special education services and supports for eligible preschool-aged children. School staff work together with the child's family to design the services, which are provided in a variety of settings, including district and community preschools.

These preschool special education services (Part B/619) are free for eligible children regardless of income or citizenship status. 

A referral can happen anytime and can be made by a family member or anyone who has concerns about a young child’s development.

Concerned about a child's development?
Visit Help Me Grow

You can also use Help Me Connect to find services in your community that support healthy child development and family well-being.

Resources for school districts

The Minnesota Department of Education Part C and Part B Resources page supports school districts' efforts to meet Early Childhood Special Education program requirements. These requirements include reporting accuracy and how to use program and outcome data.