Infants learn a great deal from their environment from a very early age. They use their senses to listen to and mimic sounds they hear, which is an important part of early language development. Infants are also highly visual. When they see caregivers smile or laugh, they often respond by smiling or laughing back. Pattern recognition also begins during infancy, as infants become aware of routines such as feeding times and diaper changes. Over time, they recognize consistent caregivers as reliable figures, which is essential for forming secure relationships and supporting healthy emotional development.

It is important for educators to recognize that children with disabilities can learn not only from the teacher, but also from their peers. I have seen students thrive in inclusive classroom settings where peer interaction supports both academic and social growth. Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) play a critical role in a student’s learning because they are developed in collaboration with families and are designed to meet each student’s unique needs. When implemented effectively, IEPs help create the best possible learning environment for students.