Inclusion Credential

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.

ECED 3300 | 3 undergrad credits/45 contact hours

This course helps promote children's success by building relationships and creating supportive environments. Students will learn how to build rapport with children and their families and how to demonstrate positive social-emotional teaching strategies including individualized intensive interventions. Detailed discipline and guidance strategies will be described and techniques for developing behavior support plans as they relate to specific diagnosis and challenging behaviors will be explored. The class will focus on the need for positive and consistent team approaches to including children with challenging behaviors in typical community settings. 

ECED 3320 | 3 undergrad credits/45 contact hours

Frequently encountered specialized health care needs of children with disabilities will be explored in this course. Students will explore a team approach in looking at health promotion in children with special health care needs. The care of individuals with altered body systems function including sensory, gastrointestinal, bowel and bladder elimination, respiratory, skin/immune, and endocrine related states will be explored. Recognizing the family as expert on their own child/family member including understanding emergency management for various health conditions, community resources and support systems will also be covered.

ECED 3340 | 3 undergrad credits/45 contact hours

A practitioner's theory and philosophy toward the inclusion process is critical for success. This capstone course is designed to enhance the student's understanding of family systems theory and family-centered practice. The impact of disability on family systems will be analyzed. Historical and current roles/views of families and parents in society with regards to disability will be discussed. Students will also have the opportunity to participate with a child and a family in daily routines and community settings. These examples will inform the student as they develop their theory and philosophy of inclusion.

ECED 4410 | 3 undergrad credits/45 contact hours