Predicting School Readiness for Low-Income Children With Disability Risks Identified Early.

Abstract

This study examined school readiness at kindergarten entry for low-income children whose disability indicators were identified before age 3. Data were collected as part ofthe Early Head Start Research and Evaluation Longitudinal Follow-Up study. Children who had suspected developmental delays and did not receive Part C services had lower preacademic skill scores at kindergarten entry than those who had no disability indicators. In contrast, the preacademic skills at age 5 of children who received Part C services did not differ from those who had no disability indicators. A large proportion of children who had suspected developmental delays and did not receive Part C services by age 3 received Part B services later. Results highlight the importance of early intervention for low-income children who have suspected developmental delays to enhance their school readiness skills.