What is Inclusion?

Inclusion is more than the presence of children with disabilities or other special needs in early childhood programs; it is the full and active participation of all children and their families, whether typically developing or with disabilities or other special needs in community activities, services, and programs. Support, accommodations, or modifications, when needed, are provided appropriately to ensure full, active participation for all children. One indicator of a high quality early childhood program is successful inclusion of children with special needs.  -As endorsed by the Alameda County Child Care Planning Council and the Committee on Special Needs.

What is the purpose of the Inclusion Project?

The purpose of the Inclusion Project is to provide an enhanced resource and referral service to parents who are in search of child care referrals or community resources for their child with a special need or disability. The Inclusion Services Coordinator is responsible for providing resources, support and technical assistance to child care providers who care for children with special needs through workshops and trainings, email correspondence, phone conversations and site visits.

What is the goal of the Inclusion Project?

The goal of the Inclusion Project is to increase the capacity of child care providers in the Tri-Valley area serving children with special needs and other disabilities as well as to provide resource & referral services to assist families in locating and maintaining child care services for children with special needs.

What are the benefits of the Inclusion Project?

Inclusion benefits everyone from day to day. Children who are registered in a program that offers an inclusive environment learn from each of their peers. This is a learning opportunity for the children’s parents and their teachers as well. Children enrolled in a program regardless of their ability learn social skills, behavior management, and every day academic and learning skills by sharing their daily experiences with their friends. As parents and providers we must remember that children are children first, with some children who just so happen to have a special need.

How can I learn more about the Inclusion Project?

For more information on how to receive an enhanced referral or to learn more about the Inclusion Project, please call the Child Care Links Inclusion Services Coordinator at (925) 417-8733.