Inclusion

Children with special needs — developmental delays, disabilities, chronic illnesses or family situations—deserve the opportunity to function in a group situation with children without a disability. Each child is special and worthy of individual consideration and program adaptation. An inclusive program benefits all children, and can never be “one size fits all” or follow rigid daily routines. Extensive planning—training sessions, conferences and workshops—is needed to ensure the maximum involvement of family, staff and the community. Caregivers and teachers must respond with more time, patience, tolerance and willingness to learn about these children, as they may need additional support to achieve autonomy and success. Every child, regardless of his or her limitation, should receive the highest quality care.