At Nia House, we strive to cultivate a community of belonging. In learning environments, an “inclusive school environment" means that all children—regardless of learning style, language, or ability—are welcomed, supported, and honored for who they are. Inclusion is a component to the way we build community.
In early childhood, children grow and change rapidly, and it’s often during these years that their unique needs begin to emerge. Through annual developmental screenings, thoughtful teacher observations, and ongoing conversations with parents and caregivers, we work together to understand each child’s strengths and challenges. This partnership is essential to our approach.
We welcome and support learners with language, sensory, cognitive, and behavioral differences and disabilities. When a child needs additional help beyond what the Nia House teachers can offer, we believe early intervention can make an important difference. Our goal is to ensure that every child at Nia House has access to the resources, strategies, and compassionate support they need to thrive.
Early intervention support comes from a variety of sources, including but not limited to: The Regional Center, Help Me Grow, Berkeley Unified School district or the district in which a family resides, your child’s pediatrician. It is key to include your pediatrician in conversations around your child’s development. They may refer you to a specialist within your healthcare network. Each school district evaluates children’s needs and also can provide specialized and individual services to children as needed. Help Me Grow is a First 5 resource network that can help parents and caregivers navigate the first steps of assessments for children and ensure that you, the parents, know where to start in acquiring early intervention support.
Inclusion benefits all children.
A diverse learning community enriches the experiences of typically developing children as well. When children learn and play alongside peers with a wide range of abilities, they develop:
