Abstract
We are committed to working collaboratively with a wide range of experts and practitioners to optimize children’s development in all settings where young children spend their time. This mission is built on the recognition that the first five years of life lay the foundation for the future success of all children. All children have rights – including children with disabilities. Children have the right to play, to an education, to be included and to have equitable opportunities to grow learn and succeed. Our vision is for all children to have the best foundation for their ongoing learning and development. For this to occur, early childhood educators and early interventionists need to have support to ensure they are best placed to develop inclusive practices within their services, and provide high-quality education, support and inclusive learning environments. Inclusion is not just about a child with a disability, but an approach that ensures all children have opportunities to learn and be valued as unique individuals. Our shared experience, qualifications and research led us to develop an approach to inclusion to provide high quality, evidence-based training for educators and practitioners, from identification of early developmental vulnerabilities through to transition beyond the service. This training encompasses a wide range of topics which can be adapted to individual cultural contexts to ensure those working with children are equipped to support all children to work toward their individual potential. This presentation explores how we hope this innovation can be developed.
Presenters
Jane WarrenSenior Lecturer, Education, Faculty of Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities, University of Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
Details
Presentation Type
Theme
KEYWORDS
Early Childhood, Disability, Developmental Delay, Inclusion, Educator Capacity, Rights
