Early childhood inclusion is the principle that supports the rights of young children with disabilities to be cared for and educated alongside their typically developing peers and to participate in a broad range of activities as full citizens of society. There is widespread policy, research, and societal support for the principle of inclusion. This entry provides information about the legal, research, and values base for early childhood inclusion, an agreed-upon definition and defining features of high-quality early childhood inclusion, and steps to take to ensure that high-quality inclusion is available for all young children with disabilities.

Legal Base

Although inclusion is not specifically defined in law, the principle is supported through legislative mandates related to equal opportunity and basic rights to be educated. Inclusion began in 1954 ...

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