EASTER SEALS PROGRAM PROVIDES NEW MODEL

The Easter Seals Early Childhood Center has embraced a new concept. It will close its traditional facility at 316 S. Plaza Way in late July and move to the former Early Childhood Center at 1912 Broadway. The new center will combine services for both special needs children and those who are not handicapped.

When it full operation, about 75 percent of enrollees will be non-handicapped. The remaining 25 percent will be mentally and physically challenged.

There are certainly benefits to the mix of students. Handicapped children can learn not only from staff, but also from other youngsters. And the setting should teach valuable and lasting lessons about stereotypes and handicaps.

It follows in the notion of mainstreaming handicapped students into public schools. The difference is that enrollment in the Easter Seals program is voluntary. Parents of both handicapped and non-handicapped youngsters can either choose this environment or go elsewhere.

The Easter Seals day-care center certainly breaks new ground. It is one of only 45 such integrated day-care operations nationwide. The success of the center will no doubt be watched closely at both the local and statewide level. It could well become a model for similar operations across America.