SHC 23 Introduction to equality and inclusion © Laser Learning Limited under licence to Pearson Education Limited Printing and photocopying permitted. UNDERSTANDING INCLUSION

SHC 23 Introduction to equality and inclusion © Laser Learning Limited under licence to Pearson Education Limited Printing and photocopying permitted. What is inclusion? Inclusion means changing your practice to ensure that children and young people are able to join in with activities. It is about matching what you do to the child’s individual needs rather than treating everyone the same.

SHC 23 Introduction to equality and inclusion © Laser Learning Limited under licence to Pearson Education Limited Printing and photocopying permitted. Why bother? Ensuring all children and young people are fully included allows them to: ●have the same experiences and opportunities ●learn and develop alongside others ●be part of a group that understands that people are different but all equally valued ●develop a positive self-image and self-esteem.

SHC 23 Introduction to equality and inclusion © Laser Learning Limited under licence to Pearson Education Limited Printing and photocopying permitted. Mind what you say Children and young people and their families are very aware of their needs but can be upset by how others talk about them. Practitioners need to ensure that they use appropriate and acceptable language when talking with families and colleagues. If you are not sure, ask politely.

SHC 23 Introduction to equality and inclusion © Laser Learning Limited under licence to Pearson Education Limited Printing and photocopying permitted. Getting information There are a wide range of sources of information: ●The child, young person or their family ●Medical professionals and social services ●Local support groups ●National charities ●Libraries ●Internet sites ●Government agencies

SHC 23 Introduction to equality and inclusion © Laser Learning Limited under licence to Pearson Education Limited Printing and photocopying permitted. Steps to inclusion The key to ensuring that children and young people in your care feel included is to: ●recognise there is a need ●research what might be appropriate ●ask the child, young person or family for their views ●discuss with colleagues ●make changes, monitor the results and review whether further changes are needed.

SHC 23 Introduction to equality and inclusion © Laser Learning Limited under licence to Pearson Education Limited Printing and photocopying permitted. Activity Watch the Teacher’s TV video “Everyone’s Included”. Make a note of some of the ways that the staff in the video ensure all children are included in the physical education activities.