Inclusion in child care looks and operates like every other child care classroom except a casual observer would notice that children with disabilities are working right alongside typically abled children. There are accommodations that need to be made but the benefits for children, caregivers, and families are incredible.
Benefits of inclusion for all children:
Learning from peers of differing ability levels
Strengthening a sense of community
Children learn to appreciate diversity and show empathy
Creates a sense of familiarity and friendship
Benefits of inclusion for caregivers:
Adapting skills and resources to meet the needs of your group
Being flexible and rising to meet challenges
Making new connections and contacts within the community
Leading by setting an example of empathy and acceptance
Benefits of inclusion for families:
Their children learn from many different children and teach them as well
Parents get to see a variety of children interacting with their child
There are more quality choices for the care of their children
Social skills are learned by their children in an authentic way