Question
What are the qualities of an inclusive environment?
Answer
- Early childhood educators, specialists, and parents work together so that goals for a child with a disability or other special need are met in a typical early childhood setting to the greatest extent possible.
- The child has access to and participates in all curriculum and activities.
- Support services are available to the provider/staff to help best meet the individual needs of the child.
It is important to take note that to successfully deliver classroom curriculums, promote learner growth, and meet the goals of students served in an early childhood setting, teachers must have a basic understanding of the unique learning needs of all students, including those with disabilities. Early childhood educators who have received training in special education topics are generally more positive about inclusion than those who enter the teaching field with limited knowledge of special education. Research does indicate that the provision of basic special education knowledge and training to early childhood educators improves attitudes towards students with special needs, a better awareness of inclusion, personal exceptions, and improved outcomes for students with disabilities who are served within these settings.
This Ask the Expert is an edited excerpt from the course, Working with Children with Disabilities: Inclusion Works!, in partnership with Region 9 Head Start Association, presented by Piret Leonetti, EdD.
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