MSDE ADA Training on Zoom for Maryland Child Care Providers - post

Many Maryland child care leaders ask a simple question: how do we meet the state ADA training rule without leaving our center? This article explains the MSDE-approved instructor-led Zoom class called "Including All Children and the Americans with Disabilities Act," who needs it, how to join, what it teaches, and how to use it in your program.

What exactly is the MSDE-approved ADA Zoom training and who needs to take it?

The required course is called "Including All Children and the Americans with Disabilities Act." It is a 3-hour, instructor-led class offered by providers like ChildCareEd that meets MSDE/COMAR rules. This class gives an overview of the ADA, inclusion basics, and examples of reasonable accommodations for young children in care settings.

Who must take it? In most programs the rule covers:

1. Directors and administrators.
2. Lead teachers and assistant teachers in preschool and school-age rooms.
3. Family child care providers and assistants.

This training is instructor-led (live) rather than self-paced online to meet Maryland rules. For program details and to register, see the course page Including All Children and the Americans with Disabilities Act and the quick guide What ADA training do Maryland child care providers need?. This short note also reminds you that continuing education on special needs should happen each year.

How do I sign up and get ready for the instructor-led Zoom session?

Signing up is easy. Use the ChildCareEd class page or local college trainings that list the instructor-led session. Here are clear steps you can follow:

1. 🔎 Find the approved class: go to the ChildCareEd event or course page like Including All Children (class listings) or the course page above. These list dates, times, cost, and if the session is Zoom or onsite.
2. 📝 Register and save your certificate: when you finish the class you will get a certificate. Put it in personnel files for licensing and credentialing.
3. 💻 Check tech: use a laptop or desktop with a microphone and camera. Test your internet and Zoom before class.
4. 📄 Bring questions: think of 1–2 children or spaces in your program you want the instructor to help with. That makes learning practical and quick to use.

Tips for success:

• 🔔 Join early so the instructor can check audio and captioning options.
• 🔁 If you need ASL or other communication access, ask when you register so the trainer can arrange supports.

For more on course schedules and how the Zoom session meets MSDE rules, check ChildCareEd's ADA Training Requirements.

What will you learn in the 3-hour Zoom class and how is accessibility handled online?

The Zoom class covers these main areas:

1. Overview of the ADA and how it applies to child care programs.
2. Inclusionary practices and research-based strategies to include children with different needs.
3. How to decide on reasonable accommodations based on an individual child’s needs.
4. Where to find resources and help (local inclusion specialists, MSDE guides, and federal resources).

What to expect during class:

• 👩‍🏫 Interactive instruction with real examples and time for your questions.
• 📋 Practical suggestions you can use the next day, such as small environmental changes, communication tips, and documentation steps.
• 🔗 Links to MSDE and ADA resources so you can learn more after class (for example Equal Access to Child Care Under the ADA).

How can your program use this training and what common mistakes should you avoid?

Use the training to make a simple plan for inclusion. Try these numbered steps:

1. 🧭 Make a team plan: decide who will take the course and when. Keep certificates in a training folder.
2. 🏷️ Write 3 simple policies: one about inclusion, one about making reasonable modifications, and one about communicating with families.
3. 🔧 Make small changes: rearrange furniture, add a quiet corner, or post visual schedules. Small changes often help most children join routines.
4. 🤝 Work with families: always do an individualized check and document the steps you tried and the outcome.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them:

1. Assuming a child can’t join an activity — instead, do a case-by-case look and try simple adaptations first.
2. Not keeping records — keep certificates and notes from family meetings handy for licensing and funding.
3. Ignoring communication needs — if a family or child needs alternate formats, provide them when reasonable.

Want more local help? Use ChildCareEd’s resources and local CCR&R supports. See the Maryland training guide and resources at ChildCareEd - ADA Training for Maryland.

Summary

The MSDE-approved 3-hour, instructor-led Zoom class "Including All Children and the Americans with Disabilities Act" gives Maryland child care staff a clear, practical way to meet state rules, learn inclusion strategies, and get a certificate. Steps to take now:

1. Register for an upcoming instructor-led Zoom session (see course page).
2. Bring real questions from your classroom so the training fits your daily work.
3. Use the ideas to write simple policies and make small changes that include more children.

You are doing important work. Training helps you say "yes" more often and keeps your program safe and welcoming for every child. For schedules and to register, visit the main training page at ChildCareEd ADA Training Requirements. state requirements vary - check your state licensing agency.