Parents of exceptional children take the search for early childhood special education very seriously – it is a difficult process for many, especially when accommodations are scarce and educational standards are in constant flux. Every parent wants what is best for his or her very special youngster but since no two children on Earth are the same, it can feel impossible to find the perfect teachers and resources.
But don’t stop your search! Knowing your options will help you know where to start looking in regards to your child’s needs for a productive learning environment.
1. Early Intervention
Part C of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act mandates that disabled or developmentally challenged children under the age of three have access to early intervention childhood learning/care. These resources can be an invaluable stepping-stone into the world of traditional preschool or structured early childhood special education classes.
2. Special Education Preschool / Classes for Exceptional Students Only
These classes can be for anybody with special needs, but are typically designed for students with specific educational requirements or situations that require highly trained instructors. Although these students do not often get the benefit of interacting with public preschool students, these exceptional children will likely have access to the most highly qualified specialists in the industry.
3. Early Childhood Special Education with Non-Disabled Peer Involvement
Non-disabled peer involvement can take on many forms. Sometimes students with special needs are transported to traditional classrooms based on skills for part of the day, but another strategy is a little more creative: some schools have adopted an outreach program that educates older traditional students about the needs of disabled children, allowing them to socialize and interact on a free-play or tutoring basis.
4. Open Community Preschool with Special Education Support
Inclusion education allows special-needs students to attend regular classes with traditional classroom students, often providing better social skill development than isolated students. The flexibility and possibilities for additional service have made this the most popular special education model in much of North America.
There is still a long, arduous road ahead of you but the benefits of early education are so, so worth the wait!
Education is for everybody – and every student should have access to facilities that best suit their needs. All kids have the same rights, but every resource is different; take the time to learn what is early childhood education and explore the different early childhood special education programs to find the right fit for your family!
