Child Care Today ©2012

Chapter 18: Inclusion of Children with Special Needs

Chapter Summary

Some children with special needs require extra attention. Special needs refers to circumstances that cause a child’s physical, cognitive, or behavioral development to vary significantly from the norm. Certain laws exist to guarantee free and appropriate education to children with disabilities, including the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act; the Americans with Disabilities Act; and the Rehabilitation Act, Section 504.

Hearing impairments can interfere with language development. Children with hearing impairments communicate through hearing aids and cochlear implants, sign language, lipreading, and visual aids. Encourage children with vision impairments to use their other senses, and use words and hands-on experiences for activities as much as possible. Buildings, classroom routines, play equipment, and activities may need adaptations for children with physical and motor impairments. Children with cognitive impairments may be placed in a classroom according to their developmental abilities. Learning disabilities can include speech and written language, reading, math, and reasoning and memory disorders. Children with mental retardation have varying levels of skills, but all can learn. Some children have emotional or behavioral problems that are frequent and extreme, including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder. Some children have health conditions such as asthma, epilepsy, or diabetes that may affect participation in activities. Gifted children have extraordinary talent in one or more areas. They need programs that challenge them at advanced levels.

Children with special needs learn best when learning from positive role models in a natural environment. Children with disabilities cannot legally be excluded from public child care programs. As much as possible, treat a child with special needs as you would any other child. Help other children understand disabilities. Inclusion encourages children to value diversity. Some individual instruction may be required, and an extra caregiver may be needed. Parents of children with special needs can provide specific information to caregivers.

Individualized Family Service Plans outline development goals and family involvement for children younger than age three. Individualized Education Programs outline how to encourage development for children with special needs who are age three or older. Making the physical environment accessible is important. Plan and modify activities so all children can participate. Allow extra time for daily routines for children with special needs.