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15 Parents’ Guide to Selecting Quality Child Care | CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS The Early Childhood Special Education program in New Mexico is focused on providing high-quality services and support for young children with developmental delays or disabilities. Two key programs are central to this effort under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA):
• Part B-619: This program ensures that preschool children (ages 3-5) with disabilities
receive a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE). It promotes inclusion by educating
children alongside their peers to the fullest extent possible, with additional supports such
as speech therapy or occupational therapy.
• Part C: This component provides early intervention services for infants and toddlers
(birth to age 3) who have or are at risk of developmental delays. It aims to address
developmental concerns early on, while supporting families in understanding and meeting
their child’s needs. New Mexico delivers these services through the Family Infant Toddler
(FIT) program. In 2023, a transition of responsibility for preschool special education services from the Public Education Department to ECECD was initiated to streamline coordination and improve service delivery for children with disabilities. For more details, visit the Early Childhood Special Education page on the ECECD website at www. nmececd.org/early-childhood-special-education/. Considerations when looking for child care for a child with special needs: • Are educators eager to learn about my child first, before focusing on their disability? • If my child receives services from other agencies, is there an interest in partnering with them to better support both the child and the educators? • Do educators foster an environment of acceptance and inclusion among the children? • Are activities and routines adapted to ensure everyone can participate? • If necessary, will the environment be modified to accommodate my child’s specific needs? These considerations can help ensure that your child’s unique needs are met while promoting an inclusive and supportive environment.