2.2: Early Intervention is Important

From the 1960s until modern day, the US courts have changed the course of law and daily practice related to people with special needs. Education has been a big part of this change. Much of this stemmed from the research done with children who had previously been institutionalized, and the realization that “nurture” can be just as important as “nature”.

In the previous chapter, the research of Skeels and Dye (1939) was highlighted; this research demonstrated the importance of early intervention, nurturing relationships, and rich learning environment, and laid the groundwork for future changes. Further research has shown that:

• Early identification of developmental delays leads to better long-term outcomes.
• Brain development is most rapid in the first few years of life, making early intervention critical.
• Family involvement enhances the effectiveness of intervention strategies.
• Evidence shows that targeted interventions can significantly improve cognitive and social skills.
• Access to services reduces the need for more intensive support later in life.
• Research indicates that early intervention can lead to cost savings in special education and healthcare.

After research showed that an adequate learning environment with appropriate stimulation can help the brain development of young children, policymakers developed compensatory education programs. Two such programs are Head Start (a federally funded program) and the California State Preschool Program (state-funded; the largest state preschool program in the country).

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