“And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.” 1 Corinthians 13:13 (NIV) Can We Be All-Inclusive?

What is the issue facing our churches? “ Approximately 10.2 million children in the US, which represents 15 percent of all US children, have special health care needs based on the Maternal and Child Health Bureau (MCHB) definition.” 2009/10 National Survey of Children with Special Health Care Needs

Getting in the Door... For most families of children with special needs, getting through the door of the church is the biggest hurdle. Fear and stress keep most families at home. Doing these simple things can make all the difference for special needs families who often feel left out. Greet these families in the parking lot Offer to carry in bags Open the door Talk to their children—at their eye level & without baby talk

What not to say? The following quotes are from a senior pastor’s wife with two special needs children. She has experienced all of the statements below and shared how offensive and hurtful they can be, even with good intentions. “God has a plan.” “God knew you could handle this.” “God caused this to teach you a lesson and make you a stronger person.” “If you had enough faith your child would be healed.” “God is punishing you for the sins of your ancestors.”

What Can We Do? Provide Structure Manage Behavior Effectively Ask for Help

Provide Structure Use visual schedules in Sunday School and Children’s Church Helps answer the question “What’s next?” Helps children who desire a certain activity know when it will occur Make it simple and reuse your materials

Provide Structure Use classroom furniture to develop clear boundaries as needed. Bookshelves Tables Play areas

Manage Behavior Effectively Provide clear and concise expectations Expectations are not understood, they are taught Review expectations weekly Use positive language and avoid negatives when redirecting. Say, “Walk” not “Don’t run.” Or say, “Safe hands” not “No hitting.” Ignore minor misbehaviors Have a fidget basket, weighted lap pads and other sensory items This does not need to be expensive or complex, use the resources around you.

Manage Behavior Effectively During a behavioral episode, limit verbal directions. Use visuals or written words to communicate expectations or requests. Use a quiet direct voice when giving directions For example, “Sit Down” not “I need you to sit now so we can begin.”

Ask for Help Parents are your biggest resource, use them to your benefit. Have a parent survey for all students; include things like: Health or allergy concerns Positive behavior reinforcers Self-help needs When asking parents for help, do so in a positive way. Say, “Is there anything that helps Johnny transition more easily?” Not, “Johnny did not transition well today. What should I do?” Do not feel embarrassed if you don’t know the answer to a problem, just seek out a solution in a positive way.

Feel free to contact me for further information or resources. Kelsey Speck