Supporting Families Through the Preschool Years in Disability Ministry

By Sandra Peoples | Episode 158 of Key Ministry: The Podcast

As ministry leaders, we have a unique opportunity to walk alongside families during the tender preschool years—especially when children are showing early signs of disabilities. Today, we’re diving into how we can offer support, empathy, and hope to families navigating this challenging season.

Understanding Disabilities in Early Childhood

Disabilities in preschoolers often fall into three categories:

• Known in Early Childhood:
  • Down syndrome
  • Cerebral palsy
  • Deafness or blindness
  • Physical disabilities
• Emerging in Early Childhood:
  • Autism
  • Speech delays
  • Motor skill delays
  • Sensory Processing Disorder
• Invisible in Early Childhood:
  • ADHD
  • Dyslexia
  • Autism (especially in girls)
  • Behavioral & mental health diagnoses

Recognizing Signs of Emerging Disabilities

Between 12-24 months:

• Prefers solitude; limited engagement
• No pointing to objects of interest
• Lacks empathy responses
• Repetitive behaviors
• Sleep difficulties & aggression

Between 24-36 months:

• Loss of previously acquired skills
• Avoids eye contact
• Language delays & echolalia
• Difficulty with change in routines
• Intense reactions to sensory input

The Big Question: Do We Tell Parents?

When ministry leaders notice concerning behaviors before parents do, sensitivity is key.

Ask this question:

“We are seeing this behavior at church. Are you seeing it at home as well?”

• Some parents will be ready to talk; others may be in denial.
• Follow their lead with kindness, no matter their response.
• Your role is not to diagnose, but to support and put accommodations in place for the child.

Supporting Families Through the Diagnosis Process

When a family is in the early stages of diagnosis, the church can be a place of refuge and encouragement. Here’s how you can support them:

1. Remind Them of God’s Love

Share a theology of disability and suffering.

Scriptures to guide:

• Exodus 4:10-12
• Psalm 139:14
• John 9:3

Recommended resources:

• Unexpected Blessings by Sandra Peoples
• Unbroken Faith by Diane Dokko Kim
• Parenting and Disabilities by Stephanie Hubach
• Rising Above Ministries (podcast & online support)

2. Show Empathy

• Acknowledge that their parenting journey is different than expected.
• Understand that parents process this news at different paces.
• Be a safe place for them to ask questions and process emotions.

3. Offer Hope and Practical Help

• Provide connections to local resources and therapies.
• Offer support with new routines and demands.
• Combat loneliness by fostering a supportive church community.

What Disability Ministry Looks Like in Preschool

• Inclusion with Supports: Most preschoolers with disabilities can be included in typical classrooms with added supports like a trained buddy.
• Specialized Classrooms: For children with more significant needs, a quiet sensory room or a hybrid model may be the best fit.
• Curriculum Recommendations: Use adaptable, truth-centered curriculums like Truth78.

Final Encouragement

Every child and family in your preschool ministry deserves to be known, loved, and supported. As ministry leaders, we can be the hands and feet of Christ, walking alongside families as they navigate diagnoses, adjustments, and new routines.

If you need guidance for your church, reach out to Beth Golik through the Key Ministry website for a free consultation.

If this post was helpful, share it with your ministry team and leave a rating on the podcast app. Together, we can make our ministries a safe, supportive place for every family.