Special Needs Programs in Peel’s Learn.Play.Care. Centres
How can we help your child?
We offer an inclusive early learning and child care program for children with special needs in each of our 12 Learn.Play.Care. Centres located throughout the Region of Peel. Resource Teachers are placed in each child care centre supporting children to fully participate in all aspects of the program.
The Resource Teacher, in collaboration with parents, sets goals and plan for your child’s individual special needs.
Who is eligible?
Children aged 18 months to school entry age who have difficulty responding to or adjusting to their environment because of physical, intellectual/developmental disabilities or social/emotional needs are eligible for a range of services offered through our special needs program.
A written referral from a community-based health care professional is required to review and confirm your child’s needs. The referral should confirm two areas of delay in your child's development.
What will your child receive from the program?
As well as taking part in the daily routines of the child care program, your child will receive an Individualized Teaching Plan designed to meet his or her specific needs. The Resource Teacher works with your child and the classroom teachers regularly. You play an important part in working with the Resource Teacher and centre staff to develop your child’s long- and short-term goals.
Every month:
The Resource Teacher will review and revise your child’s goals.
The Resource Teacher will meet with you and give you a copy of the Family Support Plan.
Every year:
You will receive a Progress Report outlining your child’s developmental growth and any recommendations and goals for the next year.
You will participate in developing an Individual Family Service Plan to set goals for the coming year.
When your child leaves the program:
The Resource Teacher will provide support as your child moves into the school system.
You will receive a Discharge Report which summarizes your child’s strengths and needs, provides recommendations for future goal planning and identifies effective strategies to assist your child as they transition to school or to future child care opportunities.
How can your child take part in the program?
As a parent, you may refer your child, by calling the Region directly.
Provide us with a letter from your family doctor or a written referral from a community-based health care professional confirming your child’s needs.
What happens after a referral has been made?
The Resource Teacher and the centre supervisor will meet with you and your child to discuss the program and to learn about your child’s needs.
Sometimes we arrange a follow-up visit at the centre or at your home to learn more about your child’s needs before he or she starts with us. Staff from other agencies who are involved with your child may come to this meeting.
What are the goals of the program?
To help children with special needs learn through individualized programs, supports and services at Learn.Play.Care. Centres and in the community.
To help families develop the skills to speak for their child both now and in the future.
What do we believe?
All children will thrive if they have a positive, nurturing and secure developmental environment that promotes physical, social, emotional and cognitive growth.
All children and their families can take part in quality, inclusive early learning and child care services.
