Inclusion embodies the values, policies and practices that support the right of every child and his or her family, regardless of ability, to participate in a broad range of activities as full members of families, communities and society. The desired results of inclusive experiences for children with and without disabilities and their families include a sense of belonging and membership, positive social relationships and friendships, and development and learning to reach their full potential.

-Adapted from the Joint Position Statement of the Division of Early Childhood and the National Association for the Education of Young Children

The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, through the Maternal and Child Health Services Block Grant, provides inclusion referral services, technical assistance, and training throughout the state to help families and caregivers of children with special needs. A child with special needs is a child who may require enhanced child care services over that of a typically developing child due to an actual or perceived developmental disability and/or delay, health/mental health, or behavior issues.

Child Care Referral Services

United4Children’s Resource and Referral services help families who have children with special needs locate and select child care meeting their unique requirements. Specialized referral and support services to locate inclusive child care are available to families of children with special needs. Inclusion specialists help families find programs that are dedicated to giving the best care to ALL children, including children with disabilities or special needs. Families may contact United4Children at 800-467-2322 or inclusionservices@united4children.org. Information is available at https://united4children.org/inclusion-services/.

Inclusion Technical Assistance for Families and Licensed and Regulated Child Care Providers

United4Children inclusion specialists provide technical assistance to child care providers and families of children with special needs at no charge to the family or child care program. Families and child care programs can receive assistance in caring for a child with special needs by contacting the United4Children inclusion specialist in their region. Inclusion specialists provide technical assistance by phone, email, or on-site.

Child Care Provider Training

Inclusion specialists provide face to face clock hour training on inclusion practices throughout the state. Training is advertised on the Missouri Professional Development System. To request a training session in your area, contact your regional inclusion specialist. There is a minimal fee of $2.00 per clock hour.