A truly developed society is an inclusive one. Classrooms can be a pivotal place where inclusion finds its place in the society. It is an opportunity for children as well as the adults to understand that different people have varying needs and function differently.
As Maria Montessori said “If we are among the men of good will who yearn for peace, we must lay the foundation for peace ourselves, by working for the social world of the child.” Building the social world of the child involves not just allowing them to interact with children who are similar to them but involves having a class which is diverse supporting children with disabilities, giftedness or special needs. Every child irrespective of their abilities and needs have to feel accepted as a valued member of the society.
Creating an inclusive and supportive environment is an opportunity to enable optimal development for all children.
Here are some curated resources to understand inclusion and supporting children with special needs:
- Building an inclusive school
- Montessori and circle of inclusion
- Montessori for special needs
- Inclusive Education
- Interview with a Special Ed Teacher
- The autistic spectrum
- Welcoming the unsettled child