Designed as a foundations text, this book provides an introduction to early childhood professionals who plan to provide services and intervention to very young children with disabilities. The text explores what early childhood education is, why early childhood education is important, what early childhood educators do, and why they do it. The text is not only intended for early childhood professionals but also for individuals in other disciplines—healthcare, social work, physical and occupational therapy, child care, and those who are involved in interagency services to young children and their families.