Can child care centers deny enrollment based on a child's disability?

The statement that child care centers cannot deny enrollment based on a child's disability is backed by federally mandated laws such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This legislation prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in various areas, including education and child care. It ensures that children with disabilities have the right to access the same opportunities and services as their peers without disabilities.

The ADA requires child care providers to make reasonable accommodations to support the inclusion of children with disabilities, ensuring that they can participate in activities on equal footing with other children. This means that unless a child poses a direct threat to the safety of themselves or others, or if the necessary accommodations would fundamentally alter the program, enrollment cannot be denied solely based on a disability.

This understanding reinforces the importance of inclusivity and equal access, ensuring that all children, regardless of their abilities, have the opportunity to benefit from child care services. Such laws promote a more equitable environment, helping to break down barriers that could otherwise exclude children with disabilities.