SPECIAL TOPICS Chapter 13

INCLUDING SPECIAL NEEDS CHILDREN The Americans with Disabilities Act requires that all family child care and center care programs provide access to children with disabilities (churches are excluded) –If reasonable accommodations can be made –If fundamental changes in the program are not required –See Figure 13-1 and Figure 13.2

A disability is a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities Research indicates that both children with disabilities and those without benefit from being in school together

A plan is developed by parents working with a support team to meet the special needs of the child and his/her family Caregiver is a member of the team, and should provide services that help meet the goals Caregiver may need training INDIVIDUALIZED FAMILY SERVICE PLAN

INCLUSION STRATEGIES Strategies depend on the type of disability: Physical Behavioral Social/emotional Developmental Learning See Table 13.1 A holistic approach focuses on strengths as well as areas of need

CHRONIC ILLNESSES May affect about 30% of children under age 18 years Check on medication administration laws AllergiesSeizure Disorder AsthmaSickle Cell Diabetes HIV/AIDS

CHILDREN WITH STRESS Reactions to stress include: Physical/behavioral: headaches, digestive problems, eating disorders, sleep disorders, stuttering, allergies, asthma, toileting problems Emotional: regression, withdrawal, aggression, sadness, escape to fantasy, tantrums, hitting, fear, nervousness, frustration

SUPPORTING CHILDREN WITH STRESS Provide: Sense of security Predictable routine and interactions Sense of control Sense of self-worth Help children to express their emotions

CHILDREN FROM DRUG ABUSING FAMILIES Prenatal exposure: impairments may be PhysicalBehavioral LanguageCognitive Emotional Social When working with an actively drug-abusing family try to show respect, stay calm, be non-judgmental