Education is key to establishing a conducive environment and building a successful inclusion program.

“Both teachers, Christine and Audrey, have been proactive about learning what Deven’s needs are and the best ways for him to learn,” comments Chris Lincoln, the director of the Early Childhood Center at Northampton Community College. “By talking to Paula as well as the other children in the classes, they have made this a good transition for him.”

With many years of experience, Chris spends much of her time supervising teachers, planning curricula and giving tours to prospective students and their families. “We’re currently going through the National Association for the Education of Young Children’s voluntary accreditation program,” she adds.

Chris explains that there has been greater interest in promoting the value of inclusive child care in recent years. “Many parents have become educated to what options are available for their child under the current child care system. When they take the time to learn the system, they can find really good care for the disadvantaged child.”