Special education grants are available to state and local education agencies through the U.S. Department of Education. According to the U.S. Department of Education website, funds are disbursed for programs that serve children with disabilities who are between the ages of 3 and 5. Children who are 2 years old that will reach the age of 3 during the school year are also eligible. Funds can be use for teacher salaries as well as special services, such as speech, physical and occupational therapies. States are required to give the bulk of the grant money to local education agencies that provide services to special education preschool students.
The Boston Center for Blind Children was started in 1901 by Isabel Greeley in an attempt to help blind children and their families. As outlined on the BCBC website, the organization grew over the years. Although the school closed in 1995, the organization continues to offer grants to charitable organizations that provide services to visually impaired students. Grant proposals are due in April and October. Organizations that apply must have 501(c)(3) status with the Internal Revenue Service and must include all budget requirements in their application.
Federal formula grants are available to assist infants and toddlers with disabilities. The Early Intervention for Infants and Toddlers With Disabilities program is outlined on the U.S. Department of Education website. Each state is responsible for using these funds to make services available to eligible children and their families. Services should also be available to children who may continue to suffer from significant developmental delays if services are not available to them. In addition to services for preschool children, services are also created to help families with specialized training and counseling.
States are given federal preschool special education grants that are disbursed by means of local agencies. The California Department of Education website describes the California Preschool Instructional Network. With its Child Development Division, funds are distributed to provide services to special-needs preschool children ages 3-5 in 11 areas around California. Training is provided to enhance programs that emphasize literacy and language development, early math skills and social skills.