A new film about early years special needs educators

A new documentary, which aims to raise awareness among the general public, families and child welfare professionals of the highly specialised profession of early years special needs educators, is now available.

The film was produced by the Association romande des pédagogues en Service Educatif Itinérant (ARPSEI) with the support of Fondation Dora.

The film portrays the educational, pedagogical and psychological care of young children from birth to the age of four or six who have developmental difficulties (such as motor, sensory or cognitive impairment, behavioural issues or communication difficulties). The role of early years special needs educators is to work within the family home, as close as possible to the child’s everyday reality, to help and advise parents in educating their children. 

The Service Educatif Itinérant (SEI) is present throughout French-speaking Switzerland, with some variations specific to each canton. There are also two inter-cantonal services, one specialised in visual impairment (CPHV) and the other in hearing impairment (ECES). The services provided by SEI teachers form part of specialised early years educational measures and are generally prescribed by paediatricians. They are aimed at babies and children from birth to the age of four or six who have special educational needs, as well as their families. These services consist of weekly educational sessions that usually take place within the child’s everyday environment in the presence of one of their two parents (or another nominated person).

SEI educators collaborate closely with parents and the various professionals involved in the child’s care, working towards common objectives. They are the link between families and the medical profession, therapists, childcare facilities and schools.