Student Research Projects

Early Intervention, the First Gatekeeper

Student Name(s)	Tiffany Leppert
Faculty Mentor(s)	Dr. B. Lively
Department	Education
Course	INST 482: Issues in Education

Abstract

Early Intervention services are provided to children who are developmentally delayed in one or more areas of development. These children are at a critical period in their life when their quality of life can be greatly improved with individualized family-centered practices. Not only will Early Intervention services be cost effective to society, but they also demonstrate ethical concerns. However, this field also faces unique challenges. Assessment of the child's abilities, or sometimes disabilities, is the first step to qualifying for extra services for the child. Children who do not qualify are denied services even if they could and probably would benefit the children. Assessment becomes the original gatekeeper of services at a very early age.