Inclusion Services
Inclusion embodies the values, policies and practices that support the right of every child and his or her family, regardless of ability, to participate in a broad range of activities as full members of families, communities and society. The desired results of inclusive experiences for children with and without disabilities and their families include a sense of belonging and membership, positive social relationships and friendships, and development and learning to reach their full potential.
-Adapted from the Joint Position Statement of the Division of Early Childhood and the National Association for the Education of Young Children
The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, through the Maternal and Child Health Services Block Grant, provides inclusion referral services, technical assistance, and training throughout the state to help families and caregivers of children with special needs. A child with special needs is a child who may require enhanced child care services over that of a typically developing child due to an actual or perceived developmental disability and/or delay, health/mental health, or behavior issues.
For more information, please visit the Inclusion Services website: Inclusion • Center For Child Well-Being
Phone: 573-882-7022
Email: cfe-childwell-being@health.missouri.edu
- Who is eligible for Inclusion Services?
Children with special needs in licensed, regulated, or subsidy contracted child care programs.
Referrals can be made by parents or guardians, directors and administrators, early care and education professional, and local or state agencies by phone or online link.
- What services are provided?
Inclusion Specialists support families to:
- Identify the specific needs of the family
- Assist in locating child care in location requested
- Coordinate with child care program to include child with special needs in their care
Inclusion Specialists support child care programs by providing:
- Clock hour training about providing care for children with special needs
- Child-specific technical assistance as needed
- Strategies to support the child with special needs in coordination with child care programs and family
- Resources