Full-inclusion preschools are educational programs that include children with and without disabilities and neurodiversity in the same classroom. This approach is based on the belief that all children, regardless of their abilities, can benefit from being in the same learning environment.
But why is full inclusion in preschool important? Here are five arguments for full-inclusion preschools:
- Full-inclusion promotes social inclusion: Full-inclusion preschools provide opportunities for children with and without disabilities to socialize and learn together. This promotes social inclusion and helps children develop positive attitudes and understanding towards others who may be different from them.
- Full-inclusion supports the development of all children: Full-inclusion preschools provide a supportive and stimulating environment for all children to learn and grow. With individualized instruction and accommodations, children with disabilities can access the same curriculum and activities as their peers without disabilities.
- Full-inclusion benefits children with disabilities: Children with disabilities can benefit from being in a full-inclusion preschool in many ways. They can learn from and interact with their peers without disabilities, gain confidence and independence, and develop skills and competencies that will support their future learning and development.
- Full-inclusion benefits children without disabilities: Children without disabilities can also benefit from being in a full-inclusion preschool. They can learn empathy, compassion, and understanding towards others who may be different from them. They can also learn to appreciate diversity and inclusion and develop the skills and attitudes necessary for success in a diverse and inclusive world.
- Full-inclusion is supported by research: Research has shown that full-inclusion preschools can be effective and beneficial for children with and without disabilities. In fact, many studies have found that children with disabilities who attend full-inclusion preschools have better outcomes in terms of their cognitive, social, and emotional development compared to those who attend segregated preschool programs.
In conclusion, the argument for full-inclusion preschools is strong. Full inclusion promotes social inclusion, supports the development of all children, benefits children with and without disabilities, and is supported by research. Full-inclusion preschools provide an inclusive and supportive environment for all children to learn and grow together.