Services for preschool children with special needs in state day care centres in Greece : issues and national policy directions

Abstract

In 1984, integration of children ages 6-12 years with special needs was legislated in Greece with the introduction of the resource room model of service delivery at the primary school level. However, this model did not extend into the preschool years. There is increasing empirical support for the importance of early intervention for children at risk. A survey was conducted in 55 state-run, day care centres in Greater Athens to examine current acceptance rates, preferred service delivery models and projected needs. The survey found that preschoolers with special needs are grossly under-served. Although it is generally accepted that 10% of the population is challenged, only 2.5% of the total enrollment in the surveyed day care centres had special needs. Despite the lack of supports, almost half of these centres accepted children with mild to moderate special needs (primarily language problems, behaviour challenges, and developmental delays). The most preferred model of service delivery identified by centre directors was total integration with support from a special needs teacher. Additional issues and concerns voiced by directors are addressed and national policy recommendations are made.