Dispelling Myths.
For this Discussion, you will examine some of the misinformation that surrounds the nature and characteristics of what have been termed "disabilities" and you will evaluate your own perspectives and insights with regard to working with children with varying abilities.
Think about the key information all early childhood professionals should know about each of the varying abilities and then, reflect on the following to prepare for the Discussion.
How well were you able to identify and explain this misconceptions and assumptions evident in the statements?
Answer these questions.
What have you learned about yourself and your perceptions of children varying abilities.
What other varying abilities might you want to learn more about in order to have a more about in order to have a more anti-bias attitude and belief system?
What might be the consequences of stereotyping children with varying abilities? For families? Other significant adults in children''s lives? Children with whom they interact? The children themselves?
Please cite these sources.
Derman-Sparks, L., & Olsen Edwards, J. (2010). Anti-bias education for young children and ourselves. Washington, D.C: National Association for Education of Young Children(NAEYC). Chapter 10. "Learning about different abilities and fairness."
Ray, J.A. Pewitt-Kinder, J., & George, S. (2009). Partnering with families of children with special needs. YC:Young children, 64(5), 16-22.
"Thirty-five years of progress in educating children with disabilities through IDEA. (Pamlet). (2010, November). Washington DC: U.S. Department of Education.