School can be a frustrating and confusing experience for children who have not developed their communication skills. not only will access to the curriculum be difficult, so will developing co-operative skills and friendships. This book has been developed to teach and develop oral language and social interaction skills to children aged 4-6. Containing 40 sessions, designed to take place two to three times a week, the book aims to help teachers to develop the "rules" of interaction with the help of the character Ginger the Bear, who features in all the activities. Skills taught include: eye contact; taking turns; sharing; greetings; awareness of feelings; giving; following instructions; listening; paying attention; and play skills. The book should provide a useful resource for Literacy Hour and curriculum Key Stage 1.

Effective social interaction does not come naturally to many children with learning disabilities and yet is vital for developing and maintaining relationships and for independent living outside the school context. This social skills programme for pupils with mild to moderate learning disabilities, physical and/or medical disabilities and for those with special needs in mainstream education is divided into three units: let's communicate; let's be friends and let's practice. It aims to increase self-esteem and improve listening skills and expressive language abilities. Teacher's notes, photocopiable illustrated pupil worksheets and assessment and evaluation forms are included.

The author's programme is designed to help children in upper Key Stage 2 and Key Stage 3 develop their communication and relationship skills by using letters home and questionnaires for parents, as well as promoting peer education and whole-school awareness of the issues explored.