Preschool and Special Needs Children

A physical health challenge should be a factor in choosing a preschool if it is one that would make it difficult, if not impossible, for your child to participate fully in routine, daily preschool life without assistance or some accommodation. This includes not just physical disabilities, but also ongoing illnesses requiring physical restrictions or treatment during the preschool day. It is important to find the right fit not only for your child's physical well-being, but also for his social, emotional, and cognitive learning benefit. Common physical disabilities include muscular, spinal, neuromotor, hearing, visual, respiratory and bone problems.

Mental health challenges include both ongoing (long-term) and serious temporary mental illnesses. Some time ago, we would not have considered this an important factor for preschool, but incidence and awareness of mental health problems in the very young are growing. Your child's condition may be caused by a family event (e.g., divorce, death), stressful occurrence (e.g., car accident, injury), an inherited trait, or an unknown cause. If your child suffers from a mental illness, her cognitive, social, emotional and physical development can be affected significantly. Common problems include depression and anxiety.

If one of these situations applies to your child, use the table below to help you find a preschool that will meet your child's needs.

Special Needs Children and The Preschool Search