Inclusion , the right to be included. Every child deserves an equal chance to learn and develop, to have a chance to participate equally in activities. Everybody has the right to communicate in their own ways, to feel safe, loved and know they belong. Also to know that they are valued as a unique person and can feel confident about their own identity.
Inclusion is important for closing the achievement gap between disadvantaged children and others. It is not optional, in the UK childminders have legal responsibilities by the United Nation Convention on the Rights of the Child.
Inclusion means including, so we need to ensure that children of varying ages can join in any activities.
We have to take account of each child’s interests and abilities, their stage of development and we would adjust the activity by providing relevant equipment so that each child can join in. That’s an inclusive approach. We have to give the opportunity to every individual to feel belonged in every way including grown ups as well as children.
Play is how children learn. In early years children mostly learn through play and experiences , listening and talking, observation and imitation.
Observing children at play
Through observing children while they are playing we can identify the individual needs, based on that, we can plan routines and activities for them. Through implementing these specific activities we can help the child’s learning and development.
Observation through play is important for professionals as this way we can learn more about the children’s needs, provide information for parents or other professionals, keep an eye on the children’s development and growing. Planning activities after observation to develop specific areas is key.
For example if a child is really quick to built a tower from 10 blocks, next time we will give him/her 15 pieces, and observe how quickly she/he can