The center provides opportunity for children with disabilities and without disabilities to learn together in an integrated setting. Established in 1992 as a childcare for children ages 3-5, Wilma Valentine Childcare (formerly known as The Wilma Valentine Creative Learning Center) continues to provide childcare options within Shelby County for children who require specialized care; especially chil
dren with autism and/or behavioral issues that have difficulty in a traditional daycare setting due to their multiple needs. The Center partners with special education preschools in the area to be sure they are doing their best to meet the needs of children while at childcare. Through high staff to child ratios and talking with the child’s therapists and teachers, Wilma Valentine Childcare provides structure and routine for these children and their parents. Families are able to return to work, maintain a job, or continue their education. Additionally, the families benefit from the consistent care which enhances their child’s progress, overall outlook, and improves the child’s quality of life at home. We feel that these contributions have been a positive response to an increasing demand for special needs childcare in the community of Sidney and Shelby County, and have shown the crucial role that the Center provides in meeting the community’s needs.
