Attention Early Childhood Educators?

Question

I am curious... there are many differences among the children in our diverse early childhood programs.

Do you see or view children with special needs any differently? If yes, how? If no, why?

Our early childhood programs are so diverse with many nationalities. How are they different?

I'm curious to know what your thoughts are on these topics. Please share! :)

Answer 1

Hi I am an Advanced Early Years Practitioner of many years now and I am Head SENCO in my setting....all this will be my opinion based on my experience and study...

1) Yes I do view them differently....however I view every child in a differnet light in an individual way! With children with SEN I tend to view them differently as they would have had such as different background and experience. Many would have had childhoods full of hospitals, meeting lots of different adults who come and go. They will have effect on their emotional and social development levels. SEN children will have very different needs and the classroom will need to be adapted for them to make sure they are fully inclusive. I'm not saying I look at them differently in a negative way-i just think that if you DONT view them differently then you cannot give them the learning environment or emotions they truelly need.

2) I'm not 100% sure what you mean? Do you meanhow Britain (for example) has many different nationalities and how this fits into a settings program? If so then in the area I live we are mostly British however we do have a percentage of Philipino and Portugese. Luckily our Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum is flexible and children are encouraged to use their home language. We ensure we have a home corner that reflects a variety of homes eg: pretend food that reflects not just a british diet, dress up clothes that have different colours and materials such as coconut based material from philipino. We fit in celebrations and events which suppots children in rejoicing in their own culture and learn about others. This is actually part of the curriculum itself!

However if you mean how the early years programmes are so different around the world well I believe they are different because they are government and cultural based. It will depend on what that countries culture and government believe is important for children to learn. For example some countries dont view ICT the same way USA might and so will put more emphasis on the natural world. If chidlren are expected to be home makers rather than career people then they may do less literacy and more practical skills early on etc.

Answer 2

I agree with Grant's momma

Answer 3

As an early childhood special educator for 8 years, I do not view children with special needs any differently than anyone else.  They are "differently abled"  They still have the same needs and interests as any other children.  They like to play with toys, watch TV, being around other children.  Just because they aren't developing like their typical peers, why should  we view them any different?