Key Questions

• Have caregivers had training or specialized education in serving children with special needs?


• Are caregivers willing and able to learn new skills that might be required to successfully include a child with special needs?


• Are they willing to be involved in helping to implement the child’s education plans: Individualized Family Service Plan [IFSP], Individualized Education Plan [IEP]?


• How would the environmental aspects of the program (light, sound, level of clutter, activities, etc.) work for your child?


• What physical changes would need to be made for your child?


• Do caregivers show enthusiasm for planning activities that can be enjoyed by children at various developmental stages?


Hints:

• Children learn to appreciate all people by getting to know others who aren’t exactly like them.


• You and your child have a lot to offer a program. Choose a caregiver who values diversity and is not afraid of working with a child with special needs.


• Ask for references with families who currently use the program, in addition to the references offered by the caregiver.