Part 2 Observation and Assessment In this unit, you had the opportunity to explore resources on the important topic of assessment in the early childhood environment. Assessment can not only help guide the planning of curriculum but it is an important tool in the referral process for early intervention services. By consistently observing and assessing a child’s development and progress in the early childhood environment, early childhood professionals can identify possible areas of concern. To prepare for this discussion, please revisit the Subchapter III—Infants and toddlers with disabilities from the readings. Please respond to the following: Explain the importance of early intervention. Explain three of the eight early intervention developmental services listed under “1432. Definitions, (4) Early intervention services”. Share how you would use observation and assessment strategies to detect possible developmental delays in two of the five developmental areas (physical, cognitive, communication, social/emotional, or adaptive). This discussion addresses the following unit learning outcomes: Explain the role of the early childhood professional and the early childhood administrator in the early intervention process Discuss how assessment results can support early intervention strategies. Remember that your goal for discussion is three-fold: To participate actively over multiple days throughout the unit. To contribute in a way that adds to the discussion and moves it forward in an original fashion. To use the course content to inform your posts and responses.