If your child has already begun school and you think your child needs special services, we suggest that you begin by discussing your concerns with your child's teacher or school principal. Ask for the Child Find Coordinator in your community. The State Department staff can answer questions about special education and related services in your state.
Many states have special manuals explaining the steps to take.
Check to see if one is available. State Department officials are responsible for special education and related services programs in their state for preschool, elementary, and secondary age children. Each state sets eligibility ages for services to children and youth with disabilities. State Developmental Disabilities Council Assisted by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Administration on Developmental Disabilities, state councils plan and advocate for improvement in services for people with developmental disabilities. A national network of programs affiliated with universities and teaching hospitals, UAPs provide interdisciplinary training for professionals and paraprofessionals and offer programs and services for children with disabilities and their families.