Early Childhood

Early Childhood Education in HCS

The long-term goal for preschool-aged children is for them to be as ready as possible to enter kindergarten. Preschool-aged children with a disability may be eligible for Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) services.

Hampton City Schools offers an Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) Program for students ages 2 - 5 who qualify for special education services under IDEA. ECSE students attend half or full-day classes. The ECSE program is designed to meet the individual needs of children with disabilities based on an appropriate service delivery model as determined by the IEP committee.

ECSE classrooms are located throughout the school division in select public elementary schools. Services focus on communication development, self-help skill development, problem-solving, pre-academic skills, and body movement and awareness. Individual objectives and strategies are developed for each child based on evidence-based practices. Related services are provided as required by eligibility and the IEP and may include speech-language therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy.

If you suspect your preschool-aged child may have a disability and require special services, please contact the Hampton City Schools Special Education department at +1 (757)-727-2405.

Links and Resources

• CDC: Milestones, Early Childhood Development, and Important Information

• CDC: Developmental Milestones in Children

• VDOE: Early Childhood Education for Families

• VDOE: School Readiness

• VDOE: Early Childhood Special Education and Early Intervention

• VDOE: Foundation Blocks for Early Education

• VCU: ACE Early Childhood

• Speech and Language Developmental Milestones

• Reading Rockets: Speech and Language Milestones in Children

• ASHA: Developmental Milestones for Speech and Language

• Early Childhood Academy: Parent Training Opportunity