Annalise, from Raintree replied:
I think that a balance is so important! Being around typically developing children is so important for kids with disabilities. The other crucial factor is that their needs are being met.

Bonnie, from Bright Futures replied:
Be prepared for good things. As an overly anxious parents I worried about others attitudes to excess. The open acceptance of my daughter is proof to me that bias is learned, not inherent.

Brianna's Mom, from White replied:
For one thing, check out all the resources possible in getting your child the help that she/he needs. And get the help. Don't say "well it will get better as time passes" because I did at first until someone told me that if I would have waited then who knows maybe she would have outgrown it and then again maybe not and it would have been more to work with. You can't guess the future.

Christian's Mom, from Barkley replied:
#1 Get all the information you can.
#2 Ask all the questions you can.
#3 Visit the center as often as it takes in order to feel confident that your child's needs will be met.
#4 Talk to the teachers and get to know them . Allow them to get to know you and your preferences.
#5 Talk to your child. He or she will be the best indicator for any program's success.

Debbie, from Bright Futures replied:
Be patient with staff and the child. Sometimes one will think your child is not progressing, but watch and listen, and then see how they have grown.

Devon, from White replied:
Consider yourself very lucky. There aren't very many schools who are doing this program. This program will give those students with special needs all the help and support they need at that same time they are able to interact with their peers. You need to be totally involved with your child in the program. You will not believe the difference this will make. All the extra work and support of the teachers should be rewarded with the total support and involvement from the parents. This program works. If you've been searching for that extra helping program, this is it! Don't let anyone tell you that you're overreacting. You know your child. Keep searching for the inclusion program. It's an amazing program.

Jane, from St. Ben's Preschool replied:
1) Investigate the program - ask lots of questions of staff and other parents.
2) Stay involved.
3) Learn as much as you can about your child's problem.
4) If you are not satisfied, ask questions right away.
5) Don't leave your child's future in someone else's hands.

Kevin and Tony, from St. Ben's Preschool replied:
Be assertive! You are your child's best and at times, only advocate NO ONE can speak better for your child than you. It never hurts to ask for a particular service especially if you feel that it is merited. Educate yourself about your child's special needs. Pick your battles. Some issues are worth fighting for, others are not, especially if a reasonable alternative is available. Speak up! My daughter cannot, so we are her only voice.

Kim, from Barkley replied:
I would tell them to take advantage of the opportunity and to participate every chance they get.

Mary, from Bright Futures replied:
Do it! Please try this! It can only be a good thing for your child.

Mary, from Raintree replied:
I would encourage then to go for it. Plan to be involved and active in the child's program.

Nancy, from Raintree replied:
Do what you feel is best for your child.

Stephanie, from St. Benedict's Infant/Toddler Program replied:
I would advise them to do it.

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