About Our Special Education Programs
When a young child needs extra support to learn, move, communicate, or connect, getting help early can make a real difference. Children's Educational Services, Inc. provides special education services for children ages 3 to 5 in Chautauqua County who have a disability, under Section 4410 of the New York State Education Law.
Care That Comes to Your Child
For little ones, learning in a place they already know can make all the difference. Through Special Education Itinerant Services (SEIT) and related therapies, a certified teacher or licensed therapist works with your child where they're most comfortable.
Home-Based Services
Your child's teacher or therapist comes directly to your home, delivering support in the environment your child already knows.
School-Based Services
Services provided in a classroom through our Little Seeds Preschool program in either an integrated classroom or a special class.
Services Your Child Receives
Every child is different, so no two plans look quite alike. Once your child's needs are identified through the CPSE, their services are tailored to them and delivered by New York State–certified and licensed professionals. Depending on your child's Individualized Education Program (IEP), these special education services may include:
Special Education Instruction
Supporting how your child communicates, thinks, plays, and connects with the world around them.
Speech Therapy
Finding your child's voice through building the words and understanding that come with communication.
Occupational Therapy
Refining the self care & fine motor skills, as well as sensory processing that help your child navigate their world.
Physical Therapy
Helping your child build the strength and balance, to move freely with confidence every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Special education services are provided at no direct cost to your family. Funding comes through county taxes and state funds set aside specifically for special education services.
Early Intervention supports children from birth to age 3; once your child turns 3, they may move into preschool special education services through the CPSE. The transition is planned ahead of time, with your Early Intervention team and the CPSE coordinating so the handoff is as smooth as possible. Learn more on our Early Intervention Program page.
No. A formal diagnosis isn't required. If you, your pediatrician, or your child's daycare provider think your child might need extra support, that's reason enough to contact your local CPSE and request an evaluation. The evaluation itself is what determines whether your child is eligible for services.
It depends on your child. The type, frequency, and duration of services are based on your child's individual needs and written into their IEP by the CPSE. Some children receive support a few times a week; others need more or less. The plan is reviewed regularly so it keeps pace with how your child is growing.
As your child approaches kindergarten age, they'll transition out of preschool special education. If they still need support, the Committee on Special Education (CSE) helps plan what comes next, and we'll walk you through it when the time comes.
