Children With Disabilities
Childcare Financial AssistanceOverview
Early Education Quality offers support for early learning programs that serve children with disabilities through the Inclusion Program. This program helps child care providers create inclusive, supportive learning environments. Eligible providers with a Workforce Solutions child care services agreement may qualify for additional funding called the Inclusion Assistance Rate to help meet the unique needs of each child.
The Inclusion Assistance Rate provides extra funding to help child care providers make reasonable accommodations for children with diagnosed disabilities. Support may include hiring additional staff, providing specialized training, purchasing equipment, or making minor facility improvements.
Step One
The parent initiates the process by submitting the required documents to the Inclusion Program.
Step Two
Children with Disabilities program staff reviews the documentation to determine eligibility.
Step Three
If eligible, a Child with Disabilities Mentor will be assigned and will contact the child care program within seven business days to schedule the initial observation visit.
Step Four
Please refer to the Visit Frequency section for additional information regarding mentor visits.
A Workforce Solutions Gulf Coast Children with Disabilities mentor will coordinate with the director of each childcare center to schedule quarterly visits to compliance with inclusion program guidelines.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who can request and start the Inclusion Assistance Rate process?
The Inclusion Assistance Rate process can ONLY be requested and initiated by the parent.
What documentation is required for a child to qualify for the Inclusion Assistance Rate?
Child must have a diagnosed and documented disability by a medical or mental health professional.
Does a child need to be receiving child care subsidy to be eligible for the Inclusion Assistance Rate?
Child must meet the eligibility requirements for subsidy and must be currently receiving subsidy to qualify for the Inclusion Assistance Rate.
How must Inclusion Assistance Rate funding be used by the child care provider?
Inclusion Assistance Rate funding must be used to make reasonable accommodation for the child to include but not limited to adaptive equipment, extra classroom support, manipulatives, classroom materials and/or equipment.
