Revised 8/2025

CHD 210 - Introduction to Exceptional Children (3 CR.)

Course Description

Reviews the history of and legal requirements for providing intervention and educational services for young children with special needs. Studies the characteristics of children with a diverse array of needs and developmental abilities. Explores concepts of early intervention, inclusion, guiding behavior and adapting environments to meet children's needs. Lecture 3 hours per week.

General Course Purpose

To prepare early care and education professionals who are employed or are preparing to be employed in child care programs, Head Start, or family child care homes, to work with young children having or at risk for having special needs.

Course Prerequisites/Corequisites

Functional literacy in the English language; reading at the 12th grade level.

Course Objectives

Upon completing the course, the student will be able to:

  • Explain the historical contributions and theoretical foundations of working with children who have exceptionalities.
  • Identify the legal bases and major policies that determine the eligibility and application of early intervention and early childhood special education.
  • Describe key characteristics of children with exceptionalities as identified by the IDEA categories of disability.
  • Consider physical, cognitive, social, and emotional differences among young children when planning an inclusive individualized curriculum.
  • Identify and select materials, activities, supports and environments for young children with diverse needs and demonstrate strategies for adapting toys, materials, and learning environments.
  • Identify programs and services providing early intervention and support for families with children having or at risk for children with exceptionalities.
  • Explore evidence-based practices and tiered intervention approaches.
  • Describe features of Universal Design for Learning and High-Leverage Practices that make general education accessible to all children
  • Utilize effective techniques for communicating and collaborating with families who have children with exceptionalities.
  • Identify and apply learning standards as they relate to children with exceptionalities.
  • Identify and apply current State and National standards and competencies as they related to working with children and families.

Major Topics to Be Included

  • Legal requirements and current policies related to inclusion, early intervention, and early childhood special education
  • Collaboration and communication with programs and services, colleagues, families, and other stakeholders.
  • Individualized Family Service Plans, Individualized Education Plans, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.
  • Transition Plans
  • The role of the teacher in assessment, planning, and adaptation for meeting the needs of all learners.