Disability is an important theme in Australian early childhood education, as educators nurture awareness and inclusion. Diversity is something to celebrate!
Children are observant. They notice when other people's bodies look different or have different physical abilities. Babies and toddlers may stare or be fearful because someone is different. Preschool children may openly ask questions and talk about the differences they see.
And, of course, children (and educators and family members) can have disabilities themselves. In 2018, there were 4.4 million Australian people with a disability, including 3.7% of all children aged between birth and four years (ABS).
Disability can have varying definitions and can include restrictions to a person's mental, mobility, sensory and learning functions. A person with a disability can look and act differently, but not necessarily.
UNCRC, NQS and EYLF
The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child states that all children with a disability should receive care and support to live a full and independent life.
The National Quality Standard requires childcare and education services to provide inclusive environments that promote competence and support exploration and play-based learning (3.2). Outdoor and indoor spaces should be organised and adapted to support every child's participation and to engage every child in quality experiences in both built and natural environments (3.2.1). Educators should ensure the dignity and rights of every child are maintained (5.1.2).
EYLF learning outcomes
The Early Years Learning Framework's learning outcomes support children to connect with people (4.4) and respond respectfully to different abilities (2.2). Learning about disability can help children become aware of inclusion and fairness (2.3).
Learning experiences
Play together
Encourage all children to interact and play together regardless of their differences. Early childhood educators can:
- plan specific learning experiences that cater for children with varied abilities
- support children with disabilities to join in group play
- encourage children to interact with other children who have a disability or health condition
- ensure children with physical disabilities are not seated at the edge of group experiences
- aim for all children to develop genuine and inclusive friendships.
Learning environments
Add toys with disabilities
Early childhood learning environments should feature toys, stories and images of people with a wide range of disabilities. Educators should be prepared for children to be overly curious and ask questions about these items. They may even be rejected.
Educators can introduce new toys and books during group time. Read the books together and discuss the toys. Answer children's questions and gently correct any misconceptions.
Interactions
- Read about people-first language on Wikipedia, and use it when talking about people with disabilities. There is much more to a person's identity than their disability.
- Remind children that everyone is unique. We each have many things that make us different and special.
- Assist all children when necessary, but let them complete tasks themselves whenever possible. View children as capable, confident learners.
- Challenge bias statements immediately. Correct incorrect assumptions about disability.
Discussions
- Talk openly about people (including educators and children) with disabilities. Talking creates familiarity and awareness; avoiding the subject creates stigma.
- Encourage children to ask questions about disabilities.
- Brainstorm solutions as a group. What can we do to ensure all children can reach the pencils?
- Promote empathy. How would you feel if you couldn't play because you were different?
Reflections
- Are you adapting or extending learning experiences so all children can participate? Some children may need assistance, while other children may need to be challenged.
- How do you usually refer to children with disabilities in your classroom?
- What would you do if someone else disrespected, excluded or had low expectations of a child with a disability?
- Do you have teaching strategies for all types of learners, including those with challenging behaviour?
Events
- 4th Jan is World Braille Day
- 21st March is World Down Syndrome Day
- 2nd April is World Autism Awareness Day
- 3rd December is International Day of Persons with Disabilities
Resources
Picture books
- Come Over to My House by Eliza Hull and Sally Rippin
- The Black Book of Colours by Cottin Menena and Rosana Faria
Music
- Teeny Tiny Stevies: Ability
- The Wiggles: I've got my glasses on