The Family Perspective On Head Start Inclusion
by Diane Bonelli, Head Start Parent, Northwest New Jersey Community Action Program
(NOR WESCAP), Washington, New Jersey
I consider myself a typical Head Start parent, but until recently my son, Anthony, was not a child who typically attended a Head Start program. Although there were children with disabilities attending Head Start, there had not been a child attending this program who was as physically challenged as Anthony.
Anthony was enrolled at a local self-contained Preschool Handicapped Program. While all his therapy needs were met, he rarely interacted with the other children. It was a one-on-one situation for the entire day. Watching Anthony become more and more dependent left me feeling very disappointed and frustrated. Everything I was working so hard to build-independence, self-esteem, and friendships-was being destroyed in that setting.
Knowing Head Start's commitment to children with disabilities, I advocated for it as available placement for Anthony.
The Child Study Team, after much resistance and a ruling by an administrative law judge, resumed related services for Anthony at the Head Start program. The transition of Anthony into the program went smoothly. The teacher, Marsha Korkowski, along with the other staff, made Anthony feel right at home. It was two weeks before any child realized, or even asked, why Anthony couldn't walk. There were no modifications made to the program. Marsha adapted puzzles by gluing spools to the pieces. Sharon Frable, the teacher assistant, Denise Johnson, the aide provided by the school district, and Stacy Ries, the special education teacher, were also instrumental in making this move a success. Anthony's speech therapy and computer training are done with his peers.
The difference in Anthony since he has been at Head Start is absolutely remarkable. I knew that positive role models would really motivate him. I just never realized how much. He no longer sits passively and allows others to do things for him. He feeds himself five or six bites of food with and without utensils. He brings home art work that was made by HIM! And Anthony is just so proud of his accomplishments! His speech is much more audible and intelligible. (I am no longer around to "translate.")
The most heartwarming event was when Anthony was invited to a classmate's birthday party. He waited anxiously the day of the party, asking every five minutes if it was time to leave. As we pulled out of the driveway he was singing over and over, "We're going to the party." I literally had tears in my eyes. He had a sense of belonging.
I am very fortunate to have my son work and play with such a wonderful group of people.
I look forward to another positive Head Start experience for Anthony next year. Thank you Head Start. You've really defined and achieved "total inclusion."
Anthony is enrolled in a Head Start program in Washington, New Jersey, which is part of NOR WESCAP, Phillipsburg, New Jersey.
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