Preparing Speech Language Pathology Students to Work in Early Childhood

Abstract

The shortage of highly qualified speech language pathologists (SLPs) with specialized training in early intervention and early childhood special education (EI/ECSE) is a pressing issue facing the field and dramatically impacts young children’s social and academic success. SLP personnel preparation programs focused on training specialists in EI/ECSE are crucial to building a highly qualified workforce to meet the needs of young children with disabilities and their families. The purpose of this manuscript is to describe the design and implementation of one such program. The guiding principles, competencies, and practica experiences of this federally funded program are illustrated. Outcomes are delineated in terms of student competencies, feasibility of implementing an early childhood specialization within an SLP graduate program, and the impact on the local community and EI/ECSE workforce.