This article makes the case that it no longer makes sense to delay the process of identifying children with disabilities until after kindergarten. The purposes, expectations, and day-to-day realities of kindergarten have changed, and children who eventually will be identified for special education are put at a considerable disadvantage when their special learning needs are not addressed during the kindergarten year. The article identifies inadequate solutions and suggests strategies that teachers and schools can use to address the status quo and work to change policy and tradition regarding special education identification in kindergarten.
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