This book explores personal, family and theoretical constructions of inclusion and offers evidence-based strategies and resources to foster parent-professional, home-school collaborative partnerships. It explores working with families to secure identity, opportunity and belonging within school settings and beyond. It does so by means of a rich international blend of scholarly articles and personal reflections. The first section examines personal, family, and theoretical perspectives on ways in which existing systems and structures define and influence inclusion of persons with disability and their families in school and workplace settings. It invites reflection on how we might come together to create more inclusive communities through mutual understanding and valuing. Section two presents a number of evidence-based practices, strategies, and resources that can serve to guide family members and professionals as they work together to build collaborative partnerships and inclusive school communities from preschool through transition to post-secondary and vocational settings. This book invites us to deeper understandings of collaboration, to engage reflection from diverse perspectives. It reminds us that at some level we are all navigating identity, opportunity and belonging; that each of us needs those who challenge us to see beyond our assumptions, whose ideas shape and sharpen our own.

A cornerstone of special education training for nearly 30 years, this is the definitive textbook for preparing educators, counselors, and other related services professionals to teach children with severe and multiple disabilities in inclusive settings. Now in a revised, thoroughly updated, and streamlined fifth edition, this bestselling volume gives current and future educators the research and practical strategies they need to ensure the best learning outcomes for their students. Presenting a team-based, collaborative approach to education, this comprehensive text includes valuable contributions from respected experts in diverse fields, including fresh voices in special education, physical therapy, occupational therapy, communication, counseling, and pediatrics. Equally useful for preservice professionals and practicing educators in inclusive classrooms, this highly regarded textbook will fully prepare professionals to meet the educational, emotional, and health care needs of students with severe and multiple disabilities. New to this edition: * New chapters on topics essential to effective practice, such as teaching strategies and transition to adulthood * Updates based on the latest developments in special education * More information on assistive technology and understanding challenging behaviors * New student-friendly features such as chapter objectives, key terms, and challenging activities * Engaging and instructive case stories at the start of each chapter * New online course materials, including slides that outline key ideas * Helpful new chapter organization that introduces readers to the diverse needs of students with disabilities and follows up with practical teaching strategies