Do Providers Need Special Skills or Equipment to Accept Children with Special Needs into Their Programs?
Caring for children with special needs requires the same basic skills (patience, empathy, and acceptance of each child as an individual) that are need to care for any child. It means providing a developmentally appropriate environment for this child as well as all the children in the program. Some children with special needs use specialized equipment (wheelchairs, walkers, communication devices, hearing aids, etc.), but many do not. Most toys and activities are appropriate or can be easily adapted if necessary. Look to the child’s family for information and guidance on the use of any special equipment. How Do I Get Started? When the family of a child with special needs approaches you, listen carefully. The parents or guardian are usually the best source of information on the needs and care of their child. Some questions you may wish to ask when you meet the family are: • Tell me about your child. • What is his or her daily routine? • What toys and activities does your child enjoy? • Wh
Related Questions
- Does No Child Left Behind support programs to help children build language and pre-reading skills before they start kindergarten?
- Do Providers Need Special Skills or Equipment to Accept Children with Special Needs into Their Programs?
- Will I need special skills or equipment to ac ept children with special needs into my center?
