Inclusion & Families
by August Kummerfeldt, M.Ed, Inclusion Specialist,
Early Learning Coalition of Orange County
Benefits of Inclusion
Inclusion benefits not only children with
special needs and their families, but all children
as well. Inclusion supports the right
that all children, regardless of diverse abilities,
can participate in a learning environment.
Inclusive environments for children
with disabilities can have a positive impact
on cognitive and social development (Broderick
& Blewitt, 2010). Research shows that
children learn about other unique strengths
and abilities when engaging in an inclusive
environment both at home and at school
(Brillante, 2017). They can learn from others
and acquire an appreciation of acceptance
for other people.
The promotion of inclusive practices for
children of varying abilities supports the
development of skills, such as friendship,
problem-solving, positive self-image, and
the demonstration of respect for others.
These fundamental practices can then
trickle down to the homefront, which in
turn encourages parents and families to be
more accepting of differences. Remember
the adage, “A family that learns together
stays together.”
Parents are the child’s first teacher and
know what’s best for their child. Working
together to create a partnership between
home and school is integral to inclusion
and can help children reach their full developmental
potential. Inclusive partnerships
provide children with special needs an equal
opportunity to engage in the same learning
environments and activities as children
without special needs.
Strategies for Successful Inclusion
Inclusion allows children to progress
at their own developmental level.
A variety of authentic and diverse
materials reflecting student interest
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levels, learning styles, and cultures allows
all children to be successful when working
and playing (Rossettti, Sauer, Bui, O.,
& Ou, 2018). Families are encouraged
to keep a consistent routine. This helps
children to feel safe and to know what is
expected. A consideration of the type of
assistance provided to children with special
needs is also important. It is essential to
help children learn independence by giving
them just enough support to be successful.
Both teachers and families can provide
opportunities for children to have sustained
social interactions and to participate in an
inclusive environment.
Inclusion is for Moms and Dads Too!
Families know their children best and can
be a wealth of knowledge for others. They
can help identify the strengths children will
bring to the classroom. Parent involvement
should be encouraged by allowing the family
expertise to be included in the transition
to early learning environments. With careful
planning and communication between
families and teachers, a successful transition
for any child can be accomplished. When
children are engaged in meaningful activities,
they have opportunities to interact
purposefully in a comfortable environment
that values and allows them to draw on
their strengths and use their knowledge to
create new spaces for learning (Broderick &
Blewitt, 2010). When families and teachers
become partners, they share the ownership
of knowledge. Both partners learn better on
how to incorporate appropriate developmental
practices in the classroom and at
home. Parent involvement influences their
child’s success and is regarded as best
practice in their child’s education.
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