When helping children with disabilities form strong peer relations, it is important to start when the child is young. Even before the child becomes school age parents of said children should consider other options to help the child build good social skills. Many organizations and states have funded preschool for children with disabilities. This is a great opportunity for children to interact with peers and also a great way to find a good system of support for the child and the parents.
The US Department of Health and Human Services lists several federal funded programs including care for infants and preschoolers. This includes the Head Start Program which offers care for children 3-5. Children of low income families are eligible as well as children with disabilities. Ohio is one of 38 states that offers state funded preschool as well. The ohio public preschools are specifically offered to children with disabilities and they also invite 'typical' children to participate in the program to help build the most diverse and acceptable group. Preschool is a great way to help foster the relationships between parents and schools and resources.
Pre-school children have a lot of curiosity and are straight forward with their questions. What better way for young children to learn about diversity and disabilities at a young age. I am for children with a disability to enjoy pre-school with other children unlike them.
ReplyDeleteIn pre-school, it is the most important period, for those with disabilities and without, for making social relationships. They learn how to communicate and how to learn from one another. I personally wonder how different this is for those with disabilities compared to those without. I think that it would be interesting yet an amazing learning opportunity to teach those with disabilities during their pre-school years.
ReplyDeletePre-school age is great! Kids are like sponges, they have so many questions and repeat everything. I agree 100 % and think it is also a great way to build relationships and most importantly gain resources.
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