All child care providers are required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to not discriminate on the basis of disability and provide disabled students the same services and programs afforded to all students. Merely just accepting disabled students into your programs to comply with the ADA is a disservice to those children and everyone at your center. Providing a truly inclusive environment in your programs will not only benefit disabled students, it will also benefit the other students, teachers and the center as a whole.
Many providers now have inclusive classrooms because anti-discrimination laws have be put into place. These laws require that students who receive special education services should learn in the least restrictive environment possible. Meaning that they should spend as much time as possible with students who don’t receive these services. That is where a truly inclusive classroom can benefit all. Studies show that inclusion is beneficial for all students, not just for those who get special education services. Students with special education needs who are in inclusive classes are absent less often. They develop stronger skills in reading and math. They’re also more likely to have jobs and pursue education after high school. The same research shows that their peers benefit too. They’re more comfortable with and more tolerant of differences. They also have increased positive self-esteem and diverse, caring friendships.
There are a few other benefits of inclusive classrooms that we can examine. These classrooms tailor teaching for all learners. All students learn differently. In an inclusive classroom, teachers weave in specially designed instruction and support that can help students make progress. These strategies are helpful for all students. Inclusive classrooms are filled with diverse learners each of whom has strengths and challenges. Inclusion gives students a way to talk about how everyone learns in their own way. They may find that they have more in common with other kids than they thought. This can go a long way in helping kids know that difference is just a a normal part of life. It can also help young students build and maintain friendships. Inclusive classroom and environments allow all students to be provided support. An inclusive class often brings speech therapists, reading specialists, and other service providers into the classroom. These professionals can provide information and suggestions to help all students. Inclusive environments helps create high expectations for all students. Student’s goals are based on the academic standards for their state, this includes students with Individualized Education Programs (IEP). Those standards lay out what all students are expected to learn in math, reading, science, and other subjects by the end of the school year. Differentiated instruction and co-teaching in a general education classroom makes it easier for students with IEPs to be taught the same material as their classmates.
As can be seen, there is great benefit for inclusive child care environments. Better outcomes for all students and all children will benefit academically, socially and emotionally. Inclusive environments are also beneficial for child care professionals. There is an opportunity for early childhood education professionals to collaborate with other professionals and have help in providing the best education and care to their students. Families of disabled students will also have the peace of mind knowing that their children are receiving the extra help and support they need while also being able to enjoy all that a program offers to students. Creating inclusive environments can be difficult work but a worthwhile undertaking.