Every child deserves to be included in their community and to feel valued, understood, and supported. For children with developmental delays or disabilities, access to inclusive and affirming environments can be hard to find. Rather than being told, “Yes, you’re welcome here,” “Yes, we can support you,” and “Yes, we understand”, these children and their families are often told the opposite, leading to exclusion and isolation. From childcare to education to medical services, there are opportunities to deepen our commitment to inclusion and strengthen the skills necessary to feel confident saying “Yes” to children with developmental delays or disabilities.

Bring your curiosity and your wonder! In this beginner-friendly and inclusive 5-month community of practice, providers will:

1. Deepen their understanding of the systemic barriers that impact children with disabilities and their families
2. Reflect on their relationship with and perspective on disability
3. Learn about disability affirming language and positive identity development
4. Explore the intersections between infant/early childhood mental health, disability rights, and social justice
5. Identify ways their existing skills can be leveraged to support children with various disabilities and developmental delays
6. Learn to create physically and emotionally accessible environments that support all children’s development
7. Deepen awareness of their own nervous system responses and patterns in service of increasing their capacity to support children with a variety of access needs.