Support, observation and evaluation
in the middle of childcare
Direct work by psychoeducators in childcare settings is uncommon. However, there may be occasions when we are asked to intervene and collaborate on an ad hoc basis in Early Childhood Centres (CPEs) and daycare centres.
The participation of psychoeducators in childcare settings
One of the responsibilities of a psychoeducator working in a childcare setting is to conduct psychoeducational assessments of children experiencing difficulties with emotional regulation, behavior, social skills, and overall development. The purpose of this assessment is to better understand the individual and environmental factors that may influence the emergence and maintenance of these behaviors, as well as to situate the child within their developmental trajectory.
Evaluation for a grant application for children with special needs
A child with special needs attending a subsidized daycare centre or CPE is entitled to the Allowance for the Integration of a Child with a Disability (AIEH). For the purposes of this allowance, a child with a disability is defined as a child with an impairment resulting in a significant and persistent disability, making them likely to encounter barriers in their integration into childcare services.
The AIEH is an allowance granted to a subsidized childcare service that wishes to welcome a child with disabilities aged 0 to 5 years. Its main objective is to integrate a child with special needs into a childcare service by promoting their overall development, gradually helping them adapt to group life, and allowing them to participate as much as possible in all the activities of the childcare service.
A professional recognized by the Ministry of Families is responsible for certifying the child's disability and making recommendations to facilitate their integration into childcare. This is a professional assessment, not a medical diagnosis. The recommendations should enable the childcare service to develop an integration plan tailored to the child's needs, in collaboration with the parent or guardian.
Psychoeducators are professionals recognized by the Ministry of Families to issue this certificate. Only CPEs (early childhood centres) and subsidized private daycares are eligible for this government allowance. Unsubsidized private daycares are not eligible.
The advisory role
The second most common role of a psychoeducator, once they have a better understanding of the child's profile and needs, is to offer advisory services to childcare staff. The goal is to support educators in a process of reflection on their practices while advising them on the most effective interventions.
For example, in the context of the inclusion of a child with special needs, in the event of uncertainty among educators regarding the interventions to be implemented or the attitudes to be adopted, the psychoeducator collaborates closely with them, providing advice, guidance, and strengthening their confidence in their effectiveness and competence.
It is essential to emphasize the importance of parental consent and active participation in service delivery. If you have any further questions about my childcare services, I encourage you to contact me.