Choosing Child Care for Your Child with Special Needs
Early childhood inclusion means all children have access to high-quality early childhood programs. With access, they gain membership and meaningful participation in a learning community. Inclusion in high-quality care supports the right of all children and their families to find a sense of belonging.
Advocating for Your Child’s Needs
Many parents wish their children came with instruction booklets. For parents of a child with special needs, this feeling may be magnified. As you learn about your child’s specific needs and interact with medical and educational professionals, remember that you are the expert on your child. Although you may feel overwhelmed by the challenges you face and may have many questions, no one knows your child better than you do. Advocating for your child shouldn’t be difficult. Collaborating with your child’s caregivers, communicating with therapists and medical professionals, and understanding your child’s own individual needs will help you find the right care setting for your child.
Advocating for your child shouldn’t be difficult
- Learn all you can about your child’s rights, specific needs, and supports.
- Ask teachers questions about the supports, strategies, and procedures at the program.
- Share essential information with your child’s teachers.