Using a Highly Rated Classroom Environment to Foster High-Quality Inclusive Practices

Abstract

With the November, 2023 release of the Policy Statement on Inclusion of Children with Disabilities in Early Childhood Programs by the Departments of Education and Health and Human Services, and the continuing work being done to further inclusive education, it is more important than ever to address the factors of quality early childhood programs that contribute to authentic inclusive opportunities for all students. Although there is research to support inclusion, and many classroom rating scales are validated and backed by research, there is little crossover to address how these factors, together, work to benefit a quality inclusive education for all children. In this dialog from the field article, we address the resources available to easily use the elements of a high-quality early childhood classroom to foster belonging, access, participation, and supports for students with disabilities in Head Start classrooms.