Education & Student Aid · Surprise rank #137
Child Age 3–5 With a Disability? NY Preschool Special-Education Evaluations and Services Are Free
New York's Committee on Preschool Special Education system evaluates potentially eligible children ages 3–5 and provides an IEP and preschool special-education services when the child qualifies.
Who
New York preschool children ages 3–5 who are suspected of having a disability affecting educational needs.
What to do
Start here: Refer the child to the school district's Committee on Preschool Special Education and choose an approved evaluator from the district's list.
Eligibility: The local CPSE determines whether the child meets New York's preschool disability criteria and what services are needed.
What you get
Free evaluation and, if eligible, an individualized program that can include speech, occupational therapy, physical therapy, counseling, special education and other supports.
Benefit: The approved evaluation and preschool special-education services are provided without charge to the family.
Possible value: Potentially thousands of dollars in privately purchased evaluations and therapy services.
Good to know
Important: A concern or diagnosis does not automatically create an IEP. CPSE must evaluate the child and determine eligibility and the needed services.
Availability: Active
Why people miss it: Families may pay privately for preschool therapy without realizing the school-district special-education system begins before kindergarten.
Sources reviewed: Aug 10, 2026