The W’s CPDC selected as model for early childhood inclusion

Mississippi University for Women’s Child and Parent Development Center (CPDC) was awarded the Mississippi Early Childhood Inclusion Center’s (MECIC) award as the Endorsed Center of the Year for 2020.

“We love to see progress when all children are given the right environment to learn and grow,” said Penny Sansing Mansell, CPDC director. “When you make classroom adjustments to benefit children with special needs or abilities, the entire school benefits and blossoms.”

Each year one licensed Mississippi Early Childhood Center receives the MECIC award for dedicating work building an inclusive environment to support children and families with special needs. In addition to the award, CPDC also received $1000 in social-emotional, developmental, inclusive materials and manipulatives to use in classrooms. A MECIC endorsed center models high-quality inclusion in its community providing access, participation and support to the children and families they serve.

Mansell said, “We all have the tools to help address developmental concerns early and we understand how early intervention can directly impact a child’s self-esteem and self-worth and set them on a better course for kindergarten readiness. We are proud of our work learning from all children and their families.”

Over the past year, CPDC has worked with MECIC to complete the Infant and Toddler Special Needs Credential with lead toddler teachers and the director. CPDC