I know there is something wrong, but what? How do I know if outside help for this child is needed? How do I tell parents that their child could have a learning difficulty? These are questions that most nursery workers, at some point in their careers, will have to face. Based on the lives of real children and typical situations in early years settings, early years practitioners will find this book invaluable in helping them care for and educate young children with additional learning difficulties. Attention Deficit Disorder, dyspraxia, dyslexia and autism are some of the difficulties explained in depth, with detailed suggestions to help support children with these special needs. Chapters in this book include: - exploring the process of early identification - showing how to make inclusion a reality in the nursery - tackling the complex issue of dealing with parents - discussing techniques for skilled and informed observation and assessment. Each chapter has an explanation section supported by a set of practical strategies to support both the child and the practitioner. Throughout this lively book, the author uses case studies to highlight the importance of listening to young children and shows how making time for listening is key to providing exactly the right level of help.

Table of Contents

1. The early identification of learning difficulties 2. Listen to the children 3. Fostering communication between parents and nursery staff 4a Just let me play! - observing children at play 4b. Understanding speech and language difficulties 4c. Understanding movement difficulties 4d. Understanding difficulties in paying attention and in remembering 4e. Difficulties with perception and sensory integration 4f. Difficulties with behaviour 5. An overview of conditions where children need additional support

Author Biography

Christine Macintyre is Senior Lecturer in Special Education at the University of Edinburgh. She has previously published with David Fulton Publishers and RoutledgeFalmer.