As a child care provider, it's important to remember that children with special needs are children first. They have the same needs as all children -- a place where they feel physically comfortable, loved and secure; opportunities to play and learn; people who care about them; and activities that allow them to be successful. Children with special needs often are not so different from typically-developing children. They may need more time to learn and practice certain skills. They may need more praise and encouragement to gain the skills typical for their age group. They may need specific adaptations to help them succeed at certain activities. But it's important to remember that in many, many ways these children have lots in common with other children. Many child care professionals and child advocates emphasize this point by using "children first" language, referring to "a child with special needs" rather than "a special needs child.