What is inclusion? This is one of the first questions I
always ask my Adapted Physical Activity class. The dictionary’s definition
states the act of being included. In special education this term means opportunities
for students with disabilities to learn alongside typically developing peers in
the general education classroom.
Then again, for some, the term can bring on feelings of that
constant parental guilt. Worry or guilt that they aren’t doing enough or doing
the right thing. For example, that if they don’t work to have their child in the
general education classroom that they aren’t doing the right thing. Even
though they know their child and feel it would not be in their best interest for
certain classes. No matter the IEP’s percentage of time in the general
education classroom, inclusion goes well beyond the school walls. It is about
individuals being viewed as a valued, accepted, and yes, included member of
society.
I’m not one to use popular expressions and sayings. Probably
because half the time by the time I seem to be aware of them they are already
going out of style. But start signing Paw Patrol, The Lion Guard, or Mickey
Mouse Clubhouse song and I’m golden. Lately one of the popular sayings has been, “living
my best life.” To me, this sums up and gives the best definition of inclusion.
That every individual, no matter the diagnosis, has the opportunity to live
their best life.
It’s about me constantly working to help equip Kaleb to live
his best life. As parents this can take many forms. It might be fighting with
insurance for specialists, therapies, etc. For some it might include
battling school districts on their child’s IEP for inclusion, supports, or
therapies. For us, it’s going against the norm of Kaleb starting 3 year old
preschool with others on IEPs, and instead going to an early childhood center
with his typically developing peers, just like I would for my typical
developing son. It’s all with the goal of allowing him to live his best life.
Advocating for inclusion is about opening doors and opening minds. However, inclusion is not just about getting the door opened and letting the individual in the door. It’s about inviting them in to be a part of the party. Opening the door to only push my kid to the corner and make him be a wall flower, viewing life from the side, is not inclusion. He should only be a wall flower if that is what he chooses. He fights, and as parents we fight every day so that ultimately he is gets to live his best life.
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