This session provides a foundation for discussions about preschool inclusion. In this session, participants view the video twice, each time looking at the content through a different lens. You may choose to conduct the session as a single session, or split the session into two parts. See the Facilitator’s Planning Worksheet agenda box for a suggestion for where to split the session.)

Facilitators should be knowledgeable of their audience and be prepared to offer relevant information on the inclusion of preschoolers with disabilities in early care and education programs. Facilitators should also be knowledgeable of the laws and regulations that affect cross-systems teaming and collaboration related to inclusion. Avoid “agency bashing” and help participants consider positive approaches for working with others to make inclusion happen.

This session also uses information from the summary statement of the Joint Position Statement of the Division for Early Childhood (DEC) and the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).

DEC is a branch of the Council for Exceptional Children, an international membership organization for those who work with or on behalf of young children with disabilities and other special needs.

NAEYC is a national membership organization dedicated to improving the well-being of all children birth through age 8.

Local terminology and policies are referenced in the video. Be sure to point these out, defining and equating them with the comparable language and expectations that are used in your participants’ communities.