This study reports on an intervention that provided training and technical assistance to childcare programs and providers to increase knowledge and modify attitudes regarding serving CSHCN. Teachers and directors (n=145) from 18 centers completed two days of "foundation" training and received 12-15 additional hours of on-site training and technical assistance. Knowledge tests were administered before and after foundation training. Efficacy of on-site training was measured by changes in perceptions of Benefits and Drawbacks of Inclusion and a Satisfaction and Perception of Change questionnaire. Results indicate that participants had more knowledge of inclusive practices after foundation training than they did before (p < .001). Participants completing the Satisfaction measure (a four-point low-to-high scale) indicated high levels of participation and satisfaction (Mean=3.5) and reported that the training was somewhat to very helpful (Means=3.1-3.5). Participants reported modest changes in (a) feelings about CSHCN (2.7); (b) including CSHCN in classroom activities (2.6); (c) changing program policies (2.4); or (d) feeling comfortable talking to parents (2.9). No change was observed on the pre/post measure of benefits and drawbacks. Conclusions: Changes in knowledge can be achieved in a 1 to 2 day training. Providers report on-site weekly training as helpful in working with CSHCN. However, self-reports of actual program or behavior changes occurring as a result of training and changes in measures of perceived benefits and drawbacks of inclusion show minimal training effects. Further research is needed to determine long-term benefits and cost effectiveness of such labor-intensive training compared to shorter/one-shot training events.
Learning Objectives: At the conslusion of this session the participants will be able to: 1. Recognize barriers to inclusion in child care for CSHCN; 2. Recognize barriers to inclusion for CSHCN; and 3. Identify at least 3 ways training can reduce barriers to inclusion. 2.
Keywords: Children With Special Needs, Child Care
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.