The Rationale for Early Intervention

Abstract

Antecedents of the current interest in early intervention are traced, with particular attention to the applicability of early intervention for exceptional children. The rationale presented draws inferential support from animal studies concerned with the effects of early experiences, descriptive studies contrasting development in children reared in different social environments, and major conceptual analyses of the importance of early stimulation for development. Empirical support is drawn from current and previous work demonstrating the results associated with early environmental enrichment. Guidelines are suggested for future research and action programs.