Attitudes Toward Disability in Early Childhood Education: A Methodological Review

Libraries: Spaces for Belonging, Support, and Partnerships

“…As beneficial as inclusionary library programs are for all children (DEC/National Association for the Education of Young Children, 2009), some caregivers of young children with disabilities may feel that the programs are not suitable for their families, either worrying that their child is disrupting the program for other children, or that they are being judged by other parents and caregivers (Burton et al, 2012; Simpson et al, 2020). However, caregivers of children with typical development report that they appreciate integrated experiences and notice their children develop increased empathy, tolerance, and benevolence toward others through inclusive programming (Lense et al, 2020; Puerta & Sanchez, 2023). With some encouragement from the EC professionals who provide their families’ intervention services, caregivers may be willing to give these integrated library programs a try.…”

The relationship of inclusive climate and peers' attitude on children with disabilities in China: A mediating role of empathy

“…Attitude of classmates have been considered one of the major problems in inclusive education (Çiçek Gümüş and Öncel, 2022 ), negatively influencing the participation of students with a disability in school contexts (Maggio et al, 2021 ). Research shows that peer relationships are an important context for developing children's socialization and are a source of social support and security in order to meet children's social needs (Zou, 1998 ; Aparicio Puerta and Polo Sánchez, 2022 ). Peer attitude toward children with disabilities can significantly impact their self-confidence and, hence, their social acceptance.…”