Children with Differing Abilities

Catalog description

Before we can be responsive to the needs of young children with medical or developmental differences, we must examine our own history, experiences, attitudes and beliefs. American society changes rapidly. Viewpoints, opportunities, and even the language we use follow trends that shape how we respond to everyone around us. In order to be aware of others, we must begin with awareness of ourselves. Students will examine our history and our society's relationship to people with exceptionalities and examine their own personal experiences, attitudes and beliefs. Students will learn to differentiate between typical and exceptional development of children from birth to age eight, analyze the differing abilities of children with physical, cognitive, health/medical, communication and/or behavioral/emotional disorders. Students will learn the basics of how to adapt curriculum to meet the needs of children with differing abilities and implement family-friendly practices for an inclusive early learning program. Components: Class Typically Offered: Every other semester