Unlocking the power of inclusion in child care settings

Inclusion is a powerful concept that lies at the heart of how we relate to others. It goes beyond simply providing a safe and nurturing environment; it encompasses a commitment to embracing diversity and ensuring that everyone feels valued and included. When it comes to inclusion when working with children to be effective in creating inclusive spaces and cultures it is important to understand the significance of inclusion in educating our kids and the benefits of creating inclusive environments.

Inclusive educational settings are designed to accommodate children of all abilities, backgrounds, and circumstances. If you have been following my work, I have worked in educational settings for nearly 20 years, working alongside educators to foster an inclusive environment for children with additional needs.An area of interest of mine in right in the early years at child care level, that time before kids get to school. These early years are important in building the best foundations for our kids to thrive throughout their childhood and into adulthood. What we do early we benefit from later. Educators play a vital role in promoting equality and building a strong foundation for children's future development as they are working with our kids every day.

When children grow up in inclusive settings, they are exposed to diverse perspectives, experiences, and cultures. This exposure broadens their horizons, enhances their understanding of others, and nurtures empathy and compassion. For all kids inclusion creates an enriching learning environment for them where they can learn from one another and celebrate their differences, similarities and enjoy each other as peers and as individuals.

By incorporating inclusive practices in the early years in settings like child care, long day care and family day care, providers can experience enhanced knowledge, improved skills, greater empathy and tolerance, increased confidence, and strengthened leadership.Inclusion is a win-win for both the child and the adults that support them.

Through inclusive programming, child care professionals gain a deeper understanding of diverse learning needs and strategies to address them effectively. They become more adept at adapting curriculum and activities to meet individual needs, allowing every child to thrive and reach their full potential, no matter their needs. Inclusive child care settings empower educators to become champions of diversity, advocating for inclusive practices within their communities and alongside other skills they are teaching the children, by being leaders in inclusion they become role models for our kids.

Children who grow up in inclusive environments also reap numerous benefits. They develop a strong sense of self-worth and belonging, fostering positive self-esteem and self-advocacy skills. They see kids for all of the skills they bring, they see kids with disability and additional needs as a peer and through this develop relationships that help shape understanding long into their adult life. When children learn alongside peers of all abilities they too learn skills they would not normally be exposed to. 

If you're passionate about creating a culture of inclusion in your child care setting and want to support your team in gaining the understanding, knowledge and confidence in working with children of all needs I invite you to explore our online program Inclusion Starts. Inclusion Starts offers comprehensive training and resources that will equip you and your team with the knowledge and skills needed to foster inclusive environments. Visit www.inclusionstarts.com for more details.

Inclusion is not just a buzzword; it is a fundamental principle that shapes the future of early childhood education. By embracing and implementing inclusive practices, child care providers can create a nurturing, empowering, and transformative environment for children. Together, let's unlock the power of inclusion and ensure that every child receives the support they need to thrive and succeed.

Angela Lockwood