Special-Needs Children Have Options

To the Editor: 
In response to a spouter who feels that having special needs children in the same daycare center as other children poses a danger to the other children and staff, first of all, is this a private daycare center or a state-approved center? Either way, we doubt that the special needs children pose any kind of a threat to the other children or staff. 
Does the spouter have firsthand knowledge of any of their accusations? Has any of the staff complained to the spouter personally, or have any of the parents complained they have concerns about safety issues?
There was a spout in response with the right answer: “If a child requires an aide, then per federal law, that child will have one.” For the special needs children who range from learning disabilities to developmental disabilities, there are options.
The Special Services School District in Crest Haven serves children from ages 3 to 21. New laws give parents the option of sending their child to regular school districts, but may be assigned to a resource room, meaning they are not included in the general population at that school. Either way, all special needs children do benefit from the stimulation of other children.
Our daughter started at the age of 3 at Ocean Academy and stayed until she graduated at the age of 21. The option of sending her to public school was not available for her then, and no doubt we would have opted with Special Services anyway.
To parents of young, special needs children beginning their journey, speak out for what your needs are, fight for any education you believe in, and include your child in any community activities available. Our journey is over, but we are proud of what an amazing person our daughter turned out to be.