Policy Statement on Inclusion of Children with Disabilities in Early Childhood Programs

Regardless of your role in the early childhood field – leader, educator, faculty member, family member – this new resource is one that you need to both read and share. It underscores that: All young children with disabilities should have access to high-quality inclusive early childhood programs that provide individualized and appropriate support so they can fully participate alongside their peers without disabilities, meet high expectations, and achieve their full potential. The responsibility to ensure that young children with disabilities and their families are included in high-quality early childhood programs is shared by federal, State, and local governments, early childhood systems, early childhood programs and providers, local educational agencies (LEAs), and schools. This November 2023 publication highlights the foundation for inclusion in early childhood programs as well as recommendations for state and local action. Resources to support inclusion are also included.