TITLE:
International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health for Children and Youth (ICF-CY) as a Framework for Early Intervention Planning in Inclusive Education
AUTHORS:
Kaloyan Damyanov
KEYWORDS:
ICF-CY, Early Intervention, Inclusive Education, Individualized Intervention Plans
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Social Sciences,
Vol.12 No.11,
November
7,
2024
ABSTRACT: This study investigated the potential of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health for Children and Youth (ICF-CY) as a framework to enhance early intervention practices in inclusive educational settings. Through the integration of a biopsychosocial model, the ICF-CY offers a comprehensive approach that accounts for the physical, cognitive, and environmental factors that influence a child’s development. This study examined how the ICF-CY facilitates the development of individualized intervention plans tailored to each child’s unique strengths and challenges, with an emphasis on participation in educational and social activities. Case studies from three kindergartens in Sofia demonstrated the practical application of the ICF-CY in addressing the diverse needs of children with developmental delays, physical disabilities, and autism spectrum disorder. Furthermore, this article discusses the benefits of the ICF-CY in fostering interdisciplinary collaboration among educators, therapists, and families. This study elucidates both the advantages and challenges of implementing the ICF-CY, underscoring the need for specialized training and supportive policies to optimize its impact. Recommendations for policy and practice are provided along with suggestions for future research, including longitudinal studies on the long-term effects of ICF-CY-guided interventions on children’s developmental trajectories.