How can we respond to children's behaviors, especially challenging ones, in ways that nurture their spirits and sense of self while simultaneously supporting appropriate and competent participation in social interactions and situations? All too often, it seems that these 2 goals cannot be simultaneously addressed, especially with children whose behavior is perceived to be particularly difficult. In ""Nurturing Spirit and Positive Behavior in Diverse Early Childhood Settings"", the authors suggest the use of Skilled Dialogue (a field-tested model for respectful, reciprocal, and responsive interaction that honors cultural beliefs and values) as a tool for achieving the nurturing of both spirit and self.The book discusses behavior in terms of culturally-based practices and how to use Skilled Dialogue to implement positive intervention and behavior support from both a developmental and cultural viewpoint. It focuses on nurturing children's sense of self as a guide to understanding and building positive behavioral supports. The book also describes strategies for the classroom and offers explicit guidance, examples, and tools for practitioners.

How can early childhood practitioners best respond to cultural and linguistic diversity and ensure positive interactions with all children and families? Discover the power of "Skilled Dialogue," a unique, effective, and field-tested model for interactions that honor the cultural beliefs and values of everyone involved.

Going far beyond the fundamentals introduced in the first edition of this book, the fully updated second edition incorporates expanded coverage of today's most critical topics and reflects the real-world feedback of seasoned "Skilled Dialogue" users. With this proven model for respectful, reciprocal, and responsive communication, pre- and inservice educators and interventionists will

• understand culture as a dynamic that shapes the behaviors and beliefs of all people
• actively communicate respect for what others believe, think, and value
• resolve issues creatively by integrating diverse perspectives from all parties
• strengthen inclusive assessment and instruction
• reframe differences between practitioners and families as complementary, not contradictory
• leverage cultural diversity as a strength rather than a "problem" or risk factor
• avoid stereotypes based on culture and ethnicity
• gain critical insight into the effects of trauma and how it interacts with culture
• establish collaborative relationships rather than seeking control over others

To support professionals as they put Skilled Dialogue into practice, this edition includes more explicit guidance, vivid examples, and practical photocopiable forms to aid with assessment, instruction, and organization of key family and child information.

With this comprehensive guide to a positive, highly effective model, early childhood professionals will establish skillful interactions that honor all cultures and perspectives--leading to stronger working relationships and better outcomes for whole families.

WHAT'S NEW

• More on assessment and instruction
• New forms that support differentiation of assessment and instruction
• Recent research and changes in early childhood education
• Revisions and additions that respond to user feedback
• Updated and expanded chapter on cultural diversity in relation to trauma
• Revised Self-Assessment and Reflection Guide