Models

Models for how EC and ECSE teachers function in inclusive programs

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Models

In our work with the Circle of Inclusion, we have encountered four approaches to restructuring services that involve differing teacher roles. The Circle of Inclusion Guidelines can be employed in any of these models and apply to early childhood education for children ages 0-8.

Early Childhood Special Education Teacher of Regular Early Childhood Class
An early childhood special education teacher is the teacher of a classroom that is predominantly comprised of children with typical development, but also includes children with disabilities.
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Early Childhood Teacher and Early Childhood Special Education Teacher Team Teaching
An early childhood special education teacher team teaches with an early childhood teacher in a classroom that is predominantly comprised of children with typical development, but also includes children with disabilities.
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Early Childhood Special Education Teacher as Collaborative Consultant
An itinerant early childhood special education teacher uses a collaborative-consultation model to offer support to a number of early childhood teachers and children with disabilities served in general early childhood education classrooms.
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Early Childhood Teacher and Early Childhood Special Education Teacher in a Blended Program
An early childhood special education and an early childhood program are combined. Classrooms are physically near one another and each classroom is comprised predominantly of children who are typically developing. An early childhood teacher leads one classroom and an early childhood special education teacher leads another.
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