Inclusive Practices and Unlocking the Potential in Every Child

In early years education, the establishment of inclusive routines serves as the cornerstone of a nurturing and empowering environment. It is within these routines that we create a space where all children, including those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), can thrive and harness their full potential.
In this blog, we delve into the essential role of instigating inclusive routines and bring to light the significance of implementing specialised techniques to boost the progress of children with SEND.

Establishing a Structured and Predictable Environment

Inclusive routines are the basis upon which to construct a structured and predictable environment, one that benefits all children. These routines offer a sense of stability and security, affording children the opportunity to develop a deep understanding of order and familiarity. Clear and consistent routines for everyday activities, ranging from arrivals and departures to snack times and transitions, serve as a framework that fosters the emotional well-being of all children and aids in the cultivation of essential self-regulation skills.

Tailoring Routines to Individual Needs

The essence of inclusive routines lies in the ability to adapt and customise them to cater to the diverse needs of each child. Consider the specific requirements of children with SEND and incorporate individualised strategies within these routines. Visual schedules, social stories, or sensory supports can be seamlessly integrated to provide additional structure and assistance to children who may benefit from visual aids or require sensory accommodations. Adapting routines ensures that every child can actively participate and engage in a meaningful manner.

Incorporating Specialised Techniques

To unlock the potential of children with SEND, the integration of specialised techniques into routines is fundamental. Collaboration with specialists, including occupational therapists, speech and language therapists, and behavior analysts, is indispensable. Together, we develop strategies and interventions tailored to address individual needs. These may encompass the use of alternative communication methods, the provision of sensory integration activities, or the application of behavior management techniques. The incorporation of specialised techniques within routines is the key to helping children with SEND develop crucial skills and progress in their areas of development.

Fostering Peer Collaboration and Support

Inclusive routines create a rich ground for peer collaboration and support, nurturing a sense of community and belonging. Children are encouraged to collaborate, communicate, and extend support to one another during routine activities. Pairing children with varying abilities enables them to learn from each other, cultivate empathy, and hone their social skills. Inclusive routines support a platform for all children to contribute and reap the benefits of the diverse strengths and perspectives that each member brings to the group.

Enabling Individual Goals and Independence

Inclusive routines can be provided to bolster individual goals and foster independence among children with SEND. Specific objectives are identified for each child and thoughtfully incorporated into these routines. For instance, a child working on self-help skills may find opportunities to practice dressing or feeding themselves during routine activities. By embedding individual goals within routines, children with SEND can hone their abilities, boost their self-awareness, and take pride in their accomplishments.

An Inclusive and Empowering Environment

Initiating inclusive routines that benefit all children while incorporating specialised techniques to support those with SEND is pivotal in creating an inclusive and empowering early years environment. By tailoring routines to suit individual needs, infusing specialist strategies, promoting peer collaboration, and facilitating individual goals, we ensure that each child can actively participate and unlock their full potential. Inclusive routines provide the foundation for nurturing the holistic development of all children, fostering a deep sense of belonging, and setting them on the path to lifelong learning and success.