Inclusion means that your child is able to be a part of a preschool that includes children with and without disabilities and special needs. The law guarantees that all children have access to a free, appropriate public education (FAPE) in the least restrictive Environment (LRE), and that means evaluating the general education classrooms to determine if the environment supports your child’s educational needs.

Some children will benefit greatly from being included with typically developing peers. It offers them the opportunity to have peers who will model age appropriate behaviors and skills. Inclusion also emphasizes an acceptance of your child as a child, without focusing on his or her disabilities. Your child learns by participating in all parts of school life rather than being separated based on needs caused by his or her limitations.