An Overview of Common Special Needs in Early Childhood

This training equips early childhood educators with knowledge about recognizing and supporting young children with diverse needs. It explores common developmental disabilities with a special focus on early signs of autism. Participants will gain insight into the characteristics and diagnostic criteria for autism spectrum disorder across different age groups, as well as indicators of delays in speech, language, motor skills, learning, and sensory processing. The course also provides simple strategies for observing and documenting concerns, effectively communicating with families, and fostering an inclusive learning environment.

This course is part of a 3-part series that also includes “Strategies for Helping Young Children with Special Needs Be Successful” and “Strategies for “Supporting Parents of Young Children with Special Needs”. There is a bundle that includes all three courses available HERE.

Sandra Peoples (M.Div., Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary) has been part of a special-needs family her entire life, growing up with a sister with Down syndrome and parenting a son with level 3 autism. These experiences inspire her advocacy and writing, including her books Unexpected Blessings and Accessible Church. She is a PhD student in family ministry at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, focusing on inclusion for special needs families. Sandra serves as the disability ministry consultant for the Southern Baptists of Texas Convention, helping churches develop inclusive ministries. She also teaches on disability ministry at Liberty University and cohosts Key Ministry: The Podcast.