Staff will at all times aim to work in partnership with parents and other caregivers and take into account their wishes and aspirations for their children. Staff will aim to involve parents and caregivers in decisions made about their children and to develop positive strategies to encourage children's development and appropriate behaviour (in the context of group care offered by the Discovery program). Where deemed appropriate, Discovery may recommend to parents that a professional assess a child, in order to better meet their developmental needs.
INTEGRATED SERVICES FOR CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDSOur goal is to meet the needs of all children. Professional services including specialized Resource Teachers may be required in order to meet the needs of your child. Discovery will explore every option available in order to include your child in our program.
Individual Support Plans Policy and ProceduresPolicy
The Discovery Program will ensure that an up-to-date individualized support plan is in place for each child with special needs who receives childcare with us. The plan will detail the support for the child and how they will function and participate in a meaningful and purposeful manner while in our care. This report will include but not limited to a description of support aids, adaptations or modifications to the physical, social and learning environment so the child is successful. This plan will be developed with the childcare staff and the child's parent(s). Other professionals might be included to share information to conduct the plan. Our program will accommodate, set appropriate developmental levels and be inclusive to all children. Examples that might be included in the plan are additional staff, modifications to the environment, and any daily routine needs that happen during their day with us.Procedure
1. Staff will complete the individualized plan by setting goals and approaches for the child that support their day. HDLH can help consider ways for the child to participate fully and engage with their peers.2. Share the plan with parents for them to have the opportunity to add or change any of the language stated in the document.
3. Parents will sign off that they agree with the plan.
4. All staff involved at the centre will also sign the completed document, including but not limited to students and volunteers.
Next Steps
1. Staff and support staff will make observations and document the child's unique abilities and growth. The information collected will help in updating the child's individualized plan.2. Staff and parents will review the document on an ongoing basis to adjust the child's abilities and needs in the program.
3. If staff need further information to complete the plan, they can use these resources:
- Early Years Portal
- How Does Leaning Happen
- Think, Feel, Act: Lessons from Research about Young Children
