If you have a child with a developmental disability or other special needs, it can be daunting to think about child care. You may be returning to work full or part-time or need time to attend to other responsibilities. Naturally, you are concerned about what is best for your child. You may also wonder what restrictions you will face or how available care will be. It is essential to know that licensed or certified child care providers cannot refuse to take a child based on disability and must make reasonable accommodations for your child’s special needs. However, you may still need to make several decisions when considering which care is best for your child.
The right child care setting can benefit your child socially, physically, and intellectually. It can provide you with a needed break and rest from care.
Here are some things to consider as you look for child care:
- Are staff members open and enthusiastic about accommodating your child? Or are they at least willing to give it a try?
- Are staff trained and supported to accommodate children with special needs? If not, how might they get the training they need?
- Do staff members understand the medical/therapeutic procedures and assistive technology necessary to support your child?
- Are you willing to show them what needs to be done?
- Is the setting (including the playground) accessible to your child? Do any books or toys feature children with special needs?
- Are staff members willing to work with your child’s therapists to plan classroom activities?
- Are staff willing to help your child develop the skills your family believes are important and include your child in the same activities as all the other children?
Talk with your child’s health care and early intervention providers for suggestions. Keep in mind that you know your child better than anyone. Therefore, you will need to weigh options with your own child’s and
family’s needs.
Once you’ve selected the type and amount of child care that is best for your family, good communication between you and the child care staff will also greatly benefit your child. Let staff know about your child’s preferences, schedules, and specific medical needs and contacts.