As one of Britain's most original thinkers and writers Colin Ward wrote extensively about positive and practical examples from the past and present of the anarchist spirit or the 'social principle' in everyday life. This volume is the first scholarly work dedicated to examining the significance of his distinctive and highly relevant contributions to the areas of education, children and the environment. In each chapter, international contributors from academic and activist backgrounds offer cross-disciplinary and critical perspectives on Ward's work and its relevance to contemporary debates. The book is divided into four key areas: The Sand Box of the City Adventures in Education Reflections on Practice Mobilisations. This book will appeal to academics and professionals interested in the condition of childhood and youth today. It will prove useful for postgraduates and professionals undertaking further professional development, and is relevant to anyone studying, researching or working in fields relating to children, education and the environment not just in the UK but beyond.

Taking a developmental approach, this accessible text addresses the ever increasing interest in identifying the characteristics of dyslexia in young children and reflects on the best way to reach and support these learners. Drawing upon current research, the author considers our current understanding of dyslexia and calls upon best practice to advise professionals, students and family members alike who seek to fulfil the potential of young children with, or showing the signs of, dyslexia. This book considers key topics explored in current best practice and dyslexia research, including: the importance of the role of speaking, hearing and understanding language dyslexia in relation to other languages and orthographies dyslexia and overlapping characteristics, particularly dyspraxia the role of play identifying and assessing dyslexia in the early years. Adopting a dyslexia-friendly position, Barbara Pavey acknowledges the ethics associated with a social model of disability, so that the focus is upon modifying teaching and learning, and respecting the views of children and parents throughout. This book includes assessment and practice strategies, good practice points, helpful ideas, first-hand narratives of dyslexia, pointers for further reading, resources and online tools, and will be of enormous practical use to anyone supporting a young child with potential or diagnosed dyslexia.

Taking a developmental approach, this accessible text addresses the ever increasing interest in identifying the characteristics of dyslexia in young children and reflects on the best way to reach and support these learners. Drawing upon current research, the author considers our current understanding of dyslexia and calls upon best practice to advise professionals, students and family members alike who seek to fulfil the potential of young children with, or showing the signs of, dyslexia. This book considers key topics explored in current best practice and dyslexia research, including: the importance of the role of speaking, hearing and understanding language dyslexia in relation to other languages and orthographies dyslexia and overlapping characteristics, particularly dyspraxia the role of play identifying and assessing dyslexia in the early years. Adopting a dyslexia-friendly position, Barbara Pavey acknowledges the ethics associated with a social model of disability, so that the focus is upon modifying teaching and learning, and respecting the views of children and parents throughout. This book includes assessment and practice strategies, good practice points, helpful ideas, first-hand narratives of dyslexia, pointers for further reading, resources and online tools, and will be of enormous practical use to anyone supporting a young child with potential or diagnosed dyslexia.

Quality rating systems discourses and practices are increasingly dominating early childhood care and education around the globe. These rating systems are constructed with the assumption that universally appropriate environments can be constructed for all those who are younger. This deterministic, ratings, and measurement oriented perspective is consistent with neoliberal discourses that privilege competition, accountability, consumer materialism, and notions such as human capital; this contemporary neoliberal condition does not support concern for the common good, democracy, equity, justice, or diversity (unless the support can facilitate new forms of capitalist gains). Ultimately, this is not a positive situation for those who are younger. The chapters in this book have two goals: (1) to provide the reader with an opportunity to engage with some of the specific problems that result from putting forward 'quality' as a dominant construct, and (2) to generate conversations and locations from diverse knowledges and multiple ways of being that could lead to the rethinking of quality, understandings of quality as a narrowing construct/practice, and/or going beyond (and outside of) notions of quality.

It is now officially acknowledged that outdoor play is extremely important for young children's development and that a few old bikes and a climbing frame just will not do. This book shows how to develop an outdoor learning environment properly for young children and how adult supporters should behave in this space. This book offers examples of good outdoor practice in a range of early years settings. Both practical and theoretical aspects of learning outdoors are covered, tracking a shared enthusiasm for outdoor play amongst practitioners, children and parents. The book shows how the authors set about solving common problems encountered in the outdoor area, and, using photographs, plans and written observations, the book shows how stimulating outdoor learning environments can be created.

This book closely examines what is involved in driving. It identifies the aspects of perception, attention, learning, memory, decision making and action control which are drawn upon in order to enable us to drive, and the brain systems involved. It attempts to show how studying tasks such as driving can help to understand how these fundamental aspects of cognition combine to facilitate performance in complex everyday tasks. In doing so it shows how a very broad range of laboratory based findings can be applied, and that through our attempts to apply this knowledge to complex everyday tasks, we gain, in return, a greater understanding of fundamental aspects of human cognition.

Quality rating systems discourses and practices are increasingly dominating early childhood care and education around the globe. These rating systems are constructed with the assumption that universally appropriate environments can be constructed for all those who are younger. This deterministic, ratings, and measurement oriented perspective is consistent with neoliberal discourses that privilege competition, accountability, consumer materialism, and notions such as human capital; this contemporary neoliberal condition does not support concern for the common good, democracy, equity, justice, or diversity (unless the support can facilitate new forms of capitalist gains). Ultimately, this is not a positive situation for those who are younger. The chapters in this book have two goals: (1) to provide the reader with an opportunity to engage with some of the specific problems that result from putting forward 'quality' as a dominant construct, and (2) to generate conversations and locations from diverse knowledges and multiple ways of being that could lead to the rethinking of quality, understandings of quality as a narrowing construct/practice, and/or going beyond (and outside of) notions of quality.

The Handbook of Social Influences in School Contexts draws from a growing body of research on how and why various aspects of social relationships and contexts contribute to children's social and academic functioning within school settings. Comprised of the latest studies in developmental and educational psychology, this comprehensive volume is perfect for researchers and students of Educational Psychology. Beginning with the theoretical perspectives that guide research on social influences, this book presents foundational research before moving on to chapters on peer influence and teacher influence. Next, the book addresses ways in which the school context can influence school-related outcomes (including peer and teacher-student relationships) with specific attention to research in motivation and cognition. Within the chapters authors not only present current research but also explore best-practices, drawing in examples from the classroom. With chapters from leading experts in the field, The Handbook of Social Influences in School Contexts provides the first complete resource on this topic.

Although there are many textbooks in the field of educational administration describing various organizational theories, this text is unique in tying organizational theory explicitly and systematically to a well-formulated problem- analysis methodology. It provides particular examples of bureaucratic, political, and leadership theories as well as descriptions of two broader theoretical frameworks: Burrell and Morgan's conceptual matrix and systems thinking. Special features include: * a fully developed methodology for describing and documenting problems in schools; * a systematic method for using different theoretical perspectives to analyze the causes of problems in schools; * carefully formulated questions illustrating how different theoretical frameworks lead policy analysts to look at problems differently and to focus on different types and sources of information concerning their possible causes; * substantial sample papers illustrating the methodology; and * a range of illustrative organizational theories, amply described and succinctly grounded intellectually. This book is directed toward students in organizational theory and problem analysis classes and their professors, as well as to school administrators seeking to examine their problems and policies from perspectives that go beyond personal experience.

First Published in 1983. Routledge is an imprint of Taylor & Francis, an informa company.

The Handbook of Social Influences in School Contexts draws from a growing body of research on how and why various aspects of social relationships and contexts contribute to children's social and academic functioning within school settings. Comprised of the latest studies in developmental and educational psychology, this comprehensive volume is perfect for researchers and students of Educational Psychology. Beginning with the theoretical perspectives that guide research on social influences, this book presents foundational research before moving on to chapters on peer influence and teacher influence. Next, the book addresses ways in which the school context can influence school-related outcomes (including peer and teacher-student relationships) with specific attention to research in motivation and cognition. Within the chapters authors not only present current research but also explore best-practices, drawing in examples from the classroom. With chapters from leading experts in the field, The Handbook of Social Influences in School Contexts provides the first complete resource on this topic.

First published in 2000. Routledge is an imprint of Taylor & Francis, an informa company.

Have you ever wondered what the Steiner approach is all about, where it comes from and how it can be used to benefit the young children in your setting? Bringing the Steiner Waldorf Approach to your Early Years Setting is an excellent introduction to this philosophy. Janni Nicol clearly explains the history of Steiner Waldorf education, the role of play in learning and the key themes of rhythm, repetition and reverence with ideas for activities and resources. Practical examples throughout the book involving children of different ages in a wide variety of settings allow readers to see the connection between theory and practice. This new edition has been fully updated to include: Clear comparisons between Steiner practice and the revised Early Years Foundations Stage (EYFS) requirements A section on the growth of international Steiner settings Information on celebrating festivals and outdoor environments This convenient guide will help Early Years practitioners, students and parents to really understand what the Steiner Waldorf approach can bring to their practice and children.

This is a practical, accessible guide to early years practice. The author examines current theories about how children learn best and focuses on how we can support and extend the learning of young children. This fully revised edition discusses Birth to Three Matters, the new Childcare Bill and the development of children's centres, and has additional focus on the Foundation Stage Profile Packed full with case studies, the book offers: practical advice on how to successfully involve parents as equal partners in the education of their children guidance to ensure that the activities and support offered to young children will promote learning across a broad and balanced Early Years curriculum a focus on special needs, multiculturalism and multilingualism, play and culture, and the importance of interactions with adults and with peers. Essential reading for students on Early Years courses, this book is also invaluable for practitioners, who can use this text as the starting point for developing their own methods within the frameworks of statutory documents relating to Early Years education.

At the heart of this volume is the recognition that children's engagement with play and story are intrinsically and intricately linked. The contributing authors share a passionate interest in the development and well-being of children, in particular through their use of imagination and adaptation of the everyday into play and stories. Following these principles, the volume explores the connections between play, story, and pretense with regard to many cultural and contextual factors that influence the way these elements vary in children's lives. In a departure from earlier collections on play and story, the authors take a particular focus on normative as compared with atypical development. This collection begins with an approach to understanding the developmental relationship between play and story, which recognizes their similarities while acknowledging their differences. Much of the collection addresses pretend play and story in children with autism spectrum disorder, an understudied but important group for consideration, as these dimensions of their lives and development have often been considered problematic. The volume also includes sections on play and story in classroom settings and play and story across cultures, including non-English-speaking environments such as Israel, Romania, China, and Mexico. It concludes with a discussion of how play differs across sociocultural and economic contexts, making a unifying claim for the importance of play in children's lives but also calling for an understanding of what play means to very different groups of children.

How a staff team works together and how effective and cohesive they are impacts significantly on the children that they care for as well as having implications for the general early years practice and the success of the business of the setting. Drawing together theory and practice, this book provides comprehensive guidance on assertive communication and offers a range of clear, practical strategies that are easy to implement in the early years setting. The Assertive Practitioner aims to distinguish between assertive, passive, aggressive and passive aggressive communication so that early years practitioners can gain confidence, become more self-aware, reflect on their own practice and develop their effective communication skills. Divided into three parts: 'what is assertiveness', 'using it' and 'developing it', the authors consider the skills of good communication and assertiveness in the early years setting, offering practical guidance on: Recruitment, induction, ongoing staff training and supervision; Disciplinary processes including handling difficult conversations and refocusing a team after a critical incident; Staff relationships with parents and other professionals; Involving the team in problem solving and implementing change; Engaging with the community; How to get support for yourself as a manager. Packed full of practical strategies and case studies, this timely new book will be invaluable support for all those wanting to enhance and improve professional practice and relationships in the early years setting.

Storying Learning in Early Childhood documents philosophical, research, and critical questions about notions of childrens' experiences and learning potential that heavily influence the profession. Critically created, child-centered curriculum and assessment collaborations focus on contexts of homes, schools, and communities. This book brings into focus policy issues, economic issues, and political realities that affect us all as we engage in curriculum and assessment. Patterns of findings under the foci of critical, responsive curriculum and authentic assessment for all children have illustrated new questions, provoked new trajectories of informants, and reiterated connections to dynamic issues in early childhood internationally. The work involved in curriculum and assessment points to international discussions about what is "quality" in early care and education and who has the power to decide. These international dynamics highlight the inevitable connections among programs for young children, policies, and politics. Further consideration regarding multiple histories, strengths, and needs of young children also illustrate little-discussed refugees and migrating people around the world - and their children - who are growing and experiencing life wherever they are living in a variety of situations with or without support.

How a staff team works together and how effective and cohesive they are impacts significantly on the children that they care for as well as having implications for the general early years practice and the success of the business of the setting. Drawing together theory and practice, this book provides comprehensive guidance on assertive communication and offers a range of clear, practical strategies that are easy to implement in the early years setting. The Assertive Practitioner aims to distinguish between assertive, passive, aggressive and passive aggressive communication so that early years practitioners can gain confidence, become more self-aware, reflect on their own practice and develop their effective communication skills. Divided into three parts: 'what is assertiveness', 'using it' and 'developing it', the authors consider the skills of good communication and assertiveness in the early years setting, offering practical guidance on: Recruitment, induction, ongoing staff training and supervision; Disciplinary processes including handling difficult conversations and refocusing a team after a critical incident; Staff relationships with parents and other professionals; Involving the team in problem solving and implementing change; Engaging with the community; How to get support for yourself as a manager. Packed full of practical strategies and case studies, this timely new book will be invaluable support for all those wanting to enhance and improve professional practice and relationships in the early years setting.

Creating Communities in Early Years Settings encourages and supports all early years practitioners who work with children and their families within the Early Years Foundation Stage. Offering advice, ideas and strategies for developing an early learning community, this book provides clear guidance and real world examples that show how practitioners can provide an excellent, inclusive service to meet the needs of young children and their families and help them to thrive. Debbie Chalmers presents innovative and practical ideas to promote progress, development and inclusion, while outlining potential pitfalls and explaining how to identify and cater for individual needs. Chapters cover key topics such as: the legal responsibilities of a setting inclusion parental participation and parent managed settings roles and duties of different staff within a setting effective and sensitive communication with colleagues and caregivers and managing transitions. Creating Communities in Early Years Settings is designed to support early years practitioners, teachers, teaching assistants, nannies and childminders working with babies and children within the Early Years Foundation Stage. The book will also be of interest to students on early years childcare and education courses from level 2 upwards.

Stimulating Emerging Story Writing! Inspiring Children aged 3-7 offers innovative and exciting ways to inspire young children to want to create stories and develop their emerging story writing skills. This practical guide offers comprehensive and informed support for professionals to effectively engage 'child authors' in stimulating story writing activities. Packed full of story ideas, resource suggestions and practical activities, the book explores the various ways professionals can help young children to develop the six key elements of story, these being character, setting, plot, conflict, resolution and ending. All of the ideas in the book are designed to support a setting's daily writing provision such as mark making opportunities, role play and using simple open ended play resources. Separated into two sections and with reference to the EYFS and Key Stage 1 curricula, this timely new text provides practitioners with tried and tested strategies and ideas that can be used with immediate effect. Chapters include: Creating Characters The Plot Thickens Inspired Ideas Resourcing the Story Stimulation This timely new text is the perfect guide for inspiring young children aged 3-7 in the classroom and will be an essential resource for practitioners, teachers and students on both early years and teacher training courses.

Stimulating Emerging Story Writing! Inspiring Children aged 3-7 offers innovative and exciting ways to inspire young children to want to create stories and develop their emerging story writing skills. This practical guide offers comprehensive and informed support for professionals to effectively engage 'child authors' in stimulating story writing activities. Packed full of story ideas, resource suggestions and practical activities, the book explores the various ways professionals can help young children to develop the six key elements of story, these being character, setting, plot, conflict, resolution and ending. All of the ideas in the book are designed to support a setting's daily writing provision such as mark making opportunities, role play and using simple open ended play resources. Separated into two sections and with reference to the EYFS and Key Stage 1 curricula, this timely new text provides practitioners with tried and tested strategies and ideas that can be used with immediate effect. Chapters include: Creating Characters The Plot Thickens Inspired Ideas Resourcing the Story Stimulation This timely new text is the perfect guide for inspiring young children aged 3-7 in the classroom and will be an essential resource for practitioners, teachers and students on both early years and teacher training courses.

This book provides readers with a detailed sketch of the Mandarin competence of Chinese children in Singapore from different home language backgrounds. Their Mandarin competence is defined in terms of lexical diversity, syntactic complexity and code-switching tendency. The findings presented show that there are statistical differences in lexical diversity and syntactic complexity among the compared groups of children, and these differences in linguistic competence were found to be positively correlated to increased Mandarin exposure at home. They also demonstrate that there are statistical differences in code-switching tendency among the groups of children compared, which were found to be negatively correlated to increased exposure to Mandarin at home. A general relationship between home language exposure and Mandarin competence was established, although this relationship was found to be volatile, especially among children who are more bilingually exposed. This book shares these findings with linguists, language educators, and language policymakers, both local and international.

This book gives insight in the vivid research area of early mathematics learning. The collection of selected papers mirror the research topics presented at the third POEM conference. Thematically, the volume reflects the importance of this relatively new field of research. Structurally, the book tries to guide the reader through a variety of research aims and issues and is split into four parts. The first two parts concentrate on teacher professional development and child learning development; the third part pools research studies creating and evaluating designed learning situations; and the fourth part bridges focuses on parent-child-interaction.

Stop, Think, Act: Integrating Self-regulation in the Early Childhood Classroom offers early childhood teachers the latest research and a wide variety of hands-on activities to help children learn and practice self-regulation techniques. Self-regulation in early childhood leads to strong academic performance, helps students form healthy friendships, and gives them the social and emotional resources they need to face high-stress situations throughout life. The book takes you through everything you need to know about using self-regulation principles during circle time, in literacy and math instruction, and during gross motor and outdoor play. Each chapter includes a solid research base as well as practical, developmentally-appropriate games, songs, and strategies that you can easily incorporate in your own classroom. With Stop, Think, Act, you'll be prepared to integrate self-regulation into every aspect of the school day.

The Decommodification of Early Childhood Education and Care: Resisting Neoliberalism explores how processes of marketisation and privatisation of ECEC have impacted understandings of children, childcare, parents, and the workforce, providing concrete examples of resistance to commodification from diverse contexts. Through processes of marketisation and privatisation, neoliberal discourses have turned ECEC into a commodity whereby economic principles of competition and choice have replaced the purpose of education. The Decommodification of Early Childhood Education and Care: Resisting Neoliberalism offers new and alternative understandings of policy and practice. Written with co-authors from diverse countries, case studies vividly portray resistance to children as human capital, to the "consumentality" of parents, and to the alienation of the early childhood workforce. Ending with messages of hope, the authors discuss the demise of neoliberalism and offer new ways forward. As an international book with global messages contributing to theory, policy, and practice regarding alternatives to a neoliberal and commodified vision of ECEC, this book offers inspiration for policy makers and practitioners to develop local resistance solutions. It will also be of interest to post-graduate students, researchers, educators, and pre-service educators with an interest in critical pedagogy, ECEC policy, and ECEC practice.