Creating Inclusive Learning Environments for Young Children: What to Do on Monday Morning

"Invites teachers to apply appropriate strategies in classroom environments for young children with special needs, setting the stage for future school success!"
―Toby Karten, Author, Inclusion Strategies That Work!

"This book helps teachers better understand specific disabilities and intentional support mechanisms that encourage ALL children to learn and grow. It is a resource that I will use for years to come!"
―Kim Hughes, Therapeutic Preschool Teacher
Project Enlightenment, Wake County Public Schools, NC

Research-based techniques to help all children thrive in early childhood settings!

More and more frequently, early childhood educators teach children with special needs, yet few have the necessary background knowledge and experiences to meet the challenge of teaching in an inclusive classroom.

Creating Inclusive Learning Environments for Young Children gives teachers targeted information, strategies, and activities to address the learning needs of all children, including those at risk. The author provides in-depth information on a variety of disabilities, including autism, vision and hearing loss, communication delays, and sensory integration disorders. Each chapter offers a glossary of terms, a list of suggested resources, and a brief summary of relevant research. Aligned with NAEYC and DEC standards, this engaging and comprehensive resource helps readers:

• Create appropriate inclusive environments and establish daily schedules
• Build relationships among peers with and without disabilities
• Work productively with families, special education teachers, and paraprofessionals
• Understand Individualized Education Programs and Response to Intervention

This handbook gives preschool and kindergarten teachers the tools to support all young learners by building relationships and providing positive classroom experiences.

Clarissa A. Willis is the associate director of the Center of Excellence at East Tennessee State University and an associate professor of special education in the Department of Human Development and Learning. She is the author of Teaching Young Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders and coauthor of Inclusive Literacy Lessons with Special Education Adaptations. Willis has over 30 years of experience working with children with special needs as a speech pathologist, early interventionist, teacher, and grant administrator. As a consultant, she has provided workshops and keynote addresses to schools and organizations across the country and abroad.