As a community-based child care provider, you know your students best. We will partner with you to support students who qualify for special education services. Research has shown that inclusion provides academic and social benefits to all students—not just those experiencing a disability. Children also have a legal right to be educated with their non-disabled peers to the maximum extent possible.

"Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning. But for children, play is serious learning. Play is really the work of childhood.” -Fred Rogers
 
We believe in partnering with teachers and caregivers to maximize children’s learning opportunities during everyday routines and activities. When you work with us, our providers will get to know the student, your classroom and you as an early learning educator. Together, we will set goals and work on skills that matter most in your daily classroom routines.

What should I expect when I partner with Northwest Regional ESD?

Plan and Observe

Once you have been paired with an early childhood special education service provider, the two of you will determine the overarching needs and goals of each visit. You will brainstorm strategies to promote development and participation that can be included in your student's everyday routines. Your provider will observe your student to learn about their skills and needs. You will have the opportunity to ask questions and voice concerns.

Act, Deliver and Practice

Your service provider might join in activities. They could model intervention strategies or teaching techniques. You will also practice strategies so you become comfortable and confident in using them. 

Reflect and Refine

Together, you and your service provider will review strategies to determine what's working and brainstorm ways to make improvements so strategies are effective. Your provider will ask if you have other concerns and offer to help connect you with helpful resources.

What can I do to help this partnership succeed?

Think about your classroom routines:

  •  Ask yourself, is the routine or activity working for your class?

  • What do the students do during the routine?

  • What does your child with an individualized family service plan (IFSP) do during the routine?

  • How independent is this student in the routine?

  • How do they participate in the routine?

Develop a relationship with your early childhood special education provider:

Your provider will be your primary contact and the person who can help you get the support you need for your classroom or program.

Share your feedback and expertise:

Share your feedback about how accommodations and modifications are or are not working. We depend on you to be a thought partner in meeting the needs of students with Individual Family Service Plans (IFSPs).