16.02.2024 Gabriele Strasser 4393

How inclusion succeeds in the childcare center

Inclusion is no longer a voluntary extra, but a social task that childcare facilities have to face up to. But what does inclusion actually mean at childcare center ? 

For childcare center coach Daniel Friederes, a basic prerequisite for inclusive pedagogy is one's own attitude. 

Mr. Friederes, how does the pedagogical attitude influence the safety and well-being of all children, especially those with special needs? 

Daniel Friederes: Your own inner (pedagogical) attitude is a perception or reality filter. An "inclusive attitude", which is characterized by acceptance, appreciation and equality, can strengthen the self-esteem and social integration of all children. 

It can support the sensitivity of educational professionals to the individual needs of each child. It also increases the willingness of educational professionals to adapt their own behavior or environment to the needs of the children. 

This can ultimately help to ensure that all children feel heard and supported, in the spirit of participation. 

As an educational professional, how can I promote an inclusive environment in which children with different abilities and backgrounds are treated equally?

Three factors are key here:
Sensitization and training: Educational professionals should undergo continuous further training and be encouraged to (self-)reflect, e.g. in the areas of professional personal development, prejudice-conscious pedagogy, ableism and inclusion. For me, professional "self-awareness" is the fundamental core competence of inclusive capacity to act! 

Promoting empathy and respect: A (learning) environment that is characterized by mutual respect and understanding in all relationships is beneficial: between children, between adults and children and among adults. Equality and participation are important key concepts here.
Children can be encouraged to support each other, to participate in decision-making and to understand diversity as the norm.

Individualization and adaptation: The pedagogical approach, the children's own actions and the design of the learning environment should be geared towards their individual needs. In this way, children can also experience themselves as equal and effective. 

What do teams need to maintain a positive and constructive working dynamic together? 

There are several key factors here:

Professional communication: Open, authentic and respectful (non-violent) communication is crucial in order to avoid misunderstandings and conflicts and to create a positive working environment.

Support and trust: Team members should support and encourage each other in order to develop and differentiate a sense of mutual trust and cooperation. 

Reflection and feedback: Regular reflection and constructive feedback help to improve collaboration and promote learning within the team. This requires a differentiated communication and feedback culture!

What motivates teams to continue developing and expanding their pedagogical skills even in difficult times?

Regular training and coaching sessions help to strengthen the educational skills of team members and enable a different awareness of new perspectives and approaches to acute (educational) challenges.

Also not to be underestimated: Celebrating and appreciating your own successes and achievements promotes motivation and performance within the team. Things that are often taken for granted in everyday life sometimes need to be consciously brought into focus and recognized.