Features

A Unique Child: Inclusion - A-Z of inclusive practice - Q is for Quality

By Mary Dickins, an early years consultant (All Together Consultancy/London Met. University)

"Inclusion is a process of identifying, understanding and breaking down barriers to participation and belonging"

Early Childhood Forum (2003)

While a consensus exists that quality in early years provision is desirable, there is no such agreement about what it might look like in practice. One of the myths around the inclusion of disabled children is that they may somehow dilute the quality of the provision by making extra demands on staff and failing to meet developmental targets. This is unlikely, especially where there is good practice and appropriate support and training. An inclusive setting will consider the opportunity for children to learn about and value difference as a vital part of what constitutes quality in their early years provision.

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included

  • Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month

  • Unlimited access to news and opinion

  • Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news

Register

Already have an account? Sign in here