Research Question: How can Interior Designers create an Early Childhood Development environment that would have a positive impact on the advancement and inclusion of disabled children while amongst their non-disabled peers?

​

Goal: Hayley's goal was to create an Early Childhood Development Center that accommodated for the individual needs of various young children with and without physical disabilities through the application of universal design considerations. The design will not only geared towards the children's physical needs, but for their visual and cognitive needs as well. The preschool was not meant to feel like just a place for education, but also a place where disabled children can escape the feeling of being "different" from their peers. With the use of stimulating design features, collaborative layouts and barrier-free designs, Hayley created an inclusive space that is not only beautiful but accessible and functional for all children. 

​

Mission Statement: The "Unity" Early Childhood Development Center is committed to inclusion and aims to provide the highest quality of education for all children, whether traditional, special or developmentally delayed. Learning experiences will be tailored to the individual needs of each child to ensure they succeed with their maximum potential. "Unity" strives to foster a collaborative environment amongst teachers, students, families and therapists. "Unity" provides an on-site therapy program for children ages 18 months to five years old through the use of speech, music, occupational and physical therapy that are embedded into the child's daily activities."