Handbook of Early Childhood Literacy
Edited by Nigel Hall, Joanne Larson and Jackie Marsh
(Sage Publications, ISBN 0 7619 7437 7, 85-hardback only, 020 7374 0645)
Reviewed by Marian Whitehead, language and early years consultant
This is a substantial collection of 33 papers drawn from a group of international scholars and although it is not possible to do it justice in this brief review, it might whet a few appetites.
The publication of such a compilation is indicative of the remarkable vitality of research and progress in the field of early childhood literacy.
The volume has five sections covering perspectives on the topic; early childhood literacy in families, communities and cultures; 'early moves' in literacy; literacy in pre-school settings; and researching the field.
The editors and contributors place a strong emphasis on literacy as a social practice that occurs outside school settings. This broad interpretation is a healthy counter-blast to the current political views and legislation in many countries. Another welcome dimension is the 'can do' approach celebrating young children's literacy achievements.
This is an informative and insightful text for researchers and students to dip into and think about for years to come.
Playwork Candidate Handbook
by Tina Farrow, Valerie Stevens and Susan Stanley
(Heinemann, 14.99, ISBN0 435 45216 9, 01865 888058)
Reviewed by Miranda Walker, playwork trainer
This book has been developed to support students undertaking level two playwork qualifications, specifically an NVQ/SVQ or the CACHE Certificate in Playwork. The values and assumptions of playwork are given due emphasis throughout. Each chapter supports one of the mandatory units of the NVQ, and the values underpinning the standards are mapped. Not only does the glossary cover the key words and terms that learners are expected to know and understand at level two, these words are highlighted in bold print whenever they appear.
The authors have successfully incorporated a number of features to help learners to build on their own experiences and to see how playwork settings put theory into practice. In each chapter, 'keys to good practice' boxes give straightforward practical tips, and 'active knowledge' sections assist learners to relate their new theoretical knowledge to their practical work in a play setting. There are case studies featuring 'what-if' scenarios, and 'think about it' boxes that recommend topics for further reflection, discussion or research. Each chapter ends with two sets of questions, designed to initially check learners' understanding, and then to test their knowledge.
I was impressed with this book, and as an NVQ assessor and a trainer for the CACHE Certificate, I will certainly be recommending it.
All together: How to create inclusive services for disabled children and their families (2nd edition)
by Mary Dickins with Judy Denziloe
(National Children's Bureau, ISBN 190099092X, 13, 020 7843 6029)
Reviewed by Collette Drifte, early years consultant
Readers who were familiar with the first edition of this invaluable book, published by the National Early Years Network, will welcome wholeheartedly the long-awaited second edition, which has been published by the National Children's Bureau.
The book takes into account all the recent changes in legislation and practice in the field of disability and special educational needs. It is a treasure box of information, advice and suggestions for best practice, with a layout that is easy to access. Written by practitioners for practitioners, it covers the expected areas such as policy development, implementing the SEN Code of Practice, working with parents and so on, but there are also excellent sections exploring the concept of disability, what inclusion really is and provision for training.
If I had to single out one chapter for praise, it would be 'Play and learning in an inclusive setting'. The book is worth buying for this section alone, as it gives loads of sound practical advice for including a child in effective learning and play situations.
My copy of the first edition was stolen last summer and I've been lost without it, so I have to admit to being delighted at having this new edition on my shelf.
Our recommended choice
Protecting children: working together to keep children safe
Heather Flynn and Barbara Starns
(Heinemann, 12.99, 0-435-45679-2, 01865 888058)
Reviewed by Jennie Lindon, early years consultant
This informative and accessible book will help early years practitioners to understand the system of child protection and their role in safeguarding children. The chapters build through clear descriptions of the two sides of child protection: assessment with family support for children in need and the direct steps to protect children from significant harm through abuse.
The authors have been as up to date as possible, including recommendations from the Green Paper Every Child Matters. They are honest about the focus on England and Wales. They make good use of examples and case studies, and offer a careful and responsible description for warning signs that could alert practitioners that children are being abused or may be at risk.
Protecting children will provide a reliable resource to help practitioners learn more about their important role, but also how it fits with the responsibilities of other professionals and services.
A book cannot cover everything, so it is not a serious criticism to say that early years teams may need to consult other child protection books.
There is limited advice here to address common worries about talking with parents, the details of anti- discriminatory practice or concerns about physical contact with children.
I am pleased to recommend that this book be prominent on your shelf.
READER OFFER
* We've got ten copies of Protecting Children to give away. Simply send your name and address on a postcard marked 'Protecting Children' to the address on page 3. The first ten postcards to be drawn on 14 June will receive the book.
