This survey was conducted in collaboration with the Disability Administration at the Ministry of Welfare and Social Security and the Department of Child Development and Rehabilitation at the Ministry of Health.
This study was carried out by Michlol- the Evaluation and Measurement Unit of the Shalem Fund
This survey focuses on the need to expand psychosocial services in rehabilitative daycare centers for toddlers with disabilities in Israel (toddlers with physical, sensory, and autistic disabilities). The survey examined the need for an additional hour of weekly psychological therapy in terms of its contribution to the toddlers, their families, and the professional staff. The study is based on an online survey that included 158 paramedical therapists from 49 municipalities with different characteristics. The survey findings emphasized the importance of emotional support, with 94% of respondents stating its necessity for families, 87% for toddlers, and 83% for staff. The study suggests expanding the role of daycare centers, providing systematic guidance to families, and defining services according to functional needs, without excessive reliance on medical diagnoses. The survey findings form the basis for policy changes, with the aim of adding an hour of emotional support and thus improving the quality of life of toddlers and their families. Overall, the survey emphasizes the need for a holistic response that reflects the wide range of needs of children and families, and encourages the promotion of innovative initiatives to improve the services in rehabilitative day care centers. The survey is an important tool for future guidance in the field of welfare and health.
Keywords: disability, toddlers, early childhood, rehabilitative day care center, psychological treatment, families, emotional coping, policy planning