Since 1986 when major federal legislation backed up a national commitment to early intervention for infants and toddlers with disabilities, there has been steady growth in the number of children and families served. However, only about 1.7% of the population of infants and toddlers is served in early intervention programs. Federal regulators give states much flexibility in implementing such systems, resulting in considerable variability in who is served and the types of services received. This article examines the current status of early intervention and discusses 5 issues believed to be critical in the coming decade: