New Service Aims to Reduce Child Care Suspensions, Expulsions of Children with Special Needs

A new prevention-based, consultative service at Child Care Council Inc. will help ensure children with disabilities have access to quality child care.

Child Care Council’s special needs consultation service will equip caregivers with strategies and supports to reduce suspension and expulsion for young children with disabilities in child care. Built on relationship-based practices, the service is provided through observation, modeling and collaboration.

According to a 2018 article by the Center for American Progress, “Suspensions Are Not Support,” children with disabilities in early childhood settings represent about 13% of enrolled children but account for 75% of suspensions and expulsions. Children with autism are the most likely to be suspended or expelled, according to Child Care Council, which served 125 families who self-reported at least one child was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders between January 2016 and December 2019.

Child Care Council’s team of special needs consultants will provide a caring, compassionate, responsive and effective service to meet each program and child’s unique needs. The special needs consultation service is funded by a $175,000 grant from the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation.

The service, which does not provide 1-to-1 care to children, is available in Monroe, Wayne and Livingston counties. Child care providers interested in learning more about this service can contact Bethany Williams, special needs services supervisor, at 585.654.1287 or [email protected].

Mother Cabrini Health Foundation is a private, nonprofit organization whose mission is to improve the health and wellbeing of New Yorkers, bolster the health outcomes of vulnerable communities, eliminate barriers to care, and bridge gaps in health services. Named after a tireless advocate for immigrants, children, and the poor, the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation funds programs and initiatives across New York State that either provide direct healthcare services or address the social determinants of health. For more information, visit https://www.cabrinihealth.org/. Further information: [email protected].