Embracing Every Child: Special Needs in Early Childhood

Hey Reader!

Have you ever thought about your “theology of disability”? I only recently heard this terminology in a conversation with Sandra Peoples at our Director’s Retreat. Basically, it just means “What do you think about God as it relates to disabilities”? Scripture clearly tells us that humans were created in God’s image – ALL humans. In multiple places in scripture, we see references to behaviors or actions that point to some form of disability in some of the people that God chose as His chosen instrument for a season. For example, Moses probably had a speech impediment and Paul had a “thorn in the flesh” that plagued him. In John 9, Jesus heals a blind man that there is a whole discussion about “who sinned, the man or his parents?” to cause is blindness. Jesus is so clear when he says “Neither this man nor his parents sinned. This came about so that God’s works might be displayed in him.” (John 9:3) Do you see that? So that God’s works might be displayed IN him – not just around him, but IN him. God intentionally created this man blind so that His glory and power would be revealed to a watching world.

As Christian early educators, we are called to reflect God’s love in all we do—including how we support children with special needs. Every child is created in God’s image (Genesis 1:27) and has a unique role in His kingdom. Understanding the theology of disability helps us shift our mindset from seeing disabilities as obstacles to recognizing them as opportunities for God’s grace and glory to shine (John 9:3).

We want ALL children to feel a sense of belonging and to have their needs met. With that in mind, here are three ways we can help all children be successful – those who are typically-developing and those who might need some extra support:

1. Foster a Culture of Inclusion
   ​ Create spaces where every child feels a sense of belonging. Use picture schedules, sensory-friendly areas, and flexible routines to support diverse needs. When we proactively design classrooms with inclusion in mind, we reflect the heart of Jesus.
2. Partner with Families
   ​Parents are the best resource when it comes to understanding their child’s needs. Ask about what works at home, communicate regularly, and pray for wisdom in providing the best support. Note: sometimes parents are still learning what works at home so be patient when they don’t have answers! A diagnosis is new for everyone!
3. Adapt Teaching Strategies
   ​Every child learns differently, and small adjustments can make a big impact. Use multi-sensory teaching methods—incorporating movement, music, hands-on activities, and visual supports—to engage all learners. Give extra time for responses, provide clear expectations, and offer choices to help children feel empowered in their learning.
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By embracing each child as a reflection of God’s image and equipping them with the support they need, we create environments where all children can thrive. If you’d like to go a little more in-depth on how you can best support children with special needs, check out the 3-part series in our Learning Library – Supporting Children with Disabilities and Their Families.​

Need a few more resources? Here are some Church Resources and Family Resources. You might also like this article on “Disobedience or Disability?”.

Some good Instagram accounts to follow:

​@SandraPeoples​

​@keyministry​

​@theadaptedway​

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Cheering you on this week!

-Your ECCN team

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Equipping you personally, professionally, and spiritually at every event! ​REGISTRATION IS OPEN!!!! Mark your calendars! Fall Regional Conferences (registration opens June 1) East Texas (Tyler) – September 6, 2025 West Texas (Lubbock) – October 18, 2025 Bryan/College Station – TBD ​ Show me all events! Show me online courses!

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Colossians 3:16

“Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.”