Perspectives on positive attitudes in inclusive
education consider the personality traits of all key individuals involved,
particularly those who interact and socialize with the children on a daily
basis such as teachers and administrators. These key figures have a significant
impact on the development of children, and their attitudes are one of the most
important aspects of teaching and learning.
A child's behaviour can be heavily influenced by their
teacher’s attitude towards them and they can determine how that teacher feels through
interaction. As a result, positive attitudes are critical and play an important
role, particularly in aiding in the development of self-esteem and
self-confidence, as well as in creating a comfortable and secure environment
for the children to thrive. If negative or unhelpful attitudes are observed,
they must be addressed before major problems develop.
Whenever I met a child who was referred to as a “special
needs student,” “disabled child” or “a child with a disability or distinction,”
I saw a true gift/blessing in their eyes. Regardless of the
"disability," I always acknowledged that the child came first; the “disability”
was never the center of attention but unfortunately, not everyone saw the child
first.
Children's disabilities should never define who they
are and why they matter most to us. All children are simply supposed to be the
most important. Working with these children and their parents was a
tremendously empowering experience unlike any other and having the opportunity
to spend valuable/quality time with them every day was life-changing.
It is extremely important to cultivate a positive
attitude toward children and inclusion among teachers, administrators and all
others involved in the child’s life. They should always strive to have positive
attitudes while demonstrating those attitudes every day. Every individual
involved contributes to the success of inclusion.