Interaction amongst parents, aides and instructors helps to build a solid foundation for each child’s education.
Inquisitive and good-natured, three year old Deven Phillips, who has Shortened Persistent Hyperplastic Primary Vitreous, or PHPV, has been in the inclusive child care program at Northampton Community College for almost two years. His mother, Paula Barreto, a student in NCC’s Early Childhood Education program, brings him to the child care center every day.
“I really have nothing but great things to say about this program,” remarks Paula. “They genuinely care about Deven and go out of their way to help him learn.” She knows that Deven’s social skills have developed more quickly, commenting that he has come out of his shell when it comes to interacting with classmates.
“The teachers have been wonderful. I was able to bring Deven in to visit before he came to class full time. The teachers explained about Deven’s condition before he came in, so that the other children would have an understanding of his needs and behaviors.”
“Deven has the same opportunities to learn as all of the other children in the class,” continues Paula. “The center bought Braille books and a Braille labeler, and they are open to having Deven’s therapist come in to work with him in class.”
