Character Education in Pre-Kindergarten

Yesterday, I was pleased to join New York State Senators Todd Kaminsky, Kevin Thomas, Anna Kaplan, Judy Griffin, and Shelley Mayer for a press conference recognizing the beginning of universal pre-kindergarten on Long Island. The positive effects of early childhood education cannot be overstated, especially for children with special needs. Universal pre-kindergarten programs provide a free, alternative location for students in need of special education services, short of a self-contained special class or a special class in an integrated setting. Students with Individualized Education Programs (“IEPs”) can receive their mandated services in a Universal Pre-K program. Special education services for preschoolers include, but are not limited to, services from a paraprofessional, Special Education Itinerant Teacher (“SEIT”), speech-language pathologist, occupational therapist, physical therapist, psychologist, and/or social worker. For many students, a universal pre-kindgarten classroom will reflect the least restrictive environment for special education services. It provides another opportunity for students with disabilities to be educated alongside their typically-developing peers.

A proper early childhood education represents more than just academic readiness. It also encompasses social emotional learning, behavior management, and physical development. A much overlooked component of pre-kindergarten programs is character education. As Universal Pre-K programs continue to increase in number, Independent Educational Consultant and Early Childhood Specialist Nnenna Franciamore, Ph.D., recommends the adoption of character education as part of each program’s curriculum. Dr. Franciamore recommmends training for teachers to effectively collaborate with parents in matters of character development. Her research highlights the importance of parental involvement.

Parental participation is built into the Committee on Special Education (“CSE”) process. For more information on how to ensure that your voice is heard in your child’s preschool program, book a virtual consultation on my website: https://www.msrlegal.org/book-your-consultation . Also, follow me on Instagram @MSRLegalConsulting and Twitter @MSRLegalOroma .

Happy Friday, and have a wonderful weekend,

Oroma

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