Early Childhood Special Education

Help Me Grow – Programs for Infants and Toddlers (birth to age 3):

Help Me Grow is a collaborative effort among the Public Schools, the Department Human Services and the Department of Public Health. These agencies work together to address the needs of young children with disabilities and their families in the areas of education, health and social services. Quality early intervention services are of primary importance in assuring young children with disabilities are prepared for successful school and life experiences.

Help Me Grow Minnesota

Early Childhood Special Education (ages 3 thru 6):

Children with disabilities, ages three through six-years, are eligible for special education services through the schools. For those children who qualify, services are usually provided within a school setting, although some children may be served within their home or other environments if that best meets their needs.

A child who receives Early Childhood Special Education under the Developmental Delay criteria is re-evaluated prior to turning seven years of age. To continue to receive special education services beyond their seventh birthday, they must qualify for one of the thirteen special education disability categories.