Parents Matter Supporting The Birth To Three Matters Framework

This book explores the important role of parents and the extended family in the lives of babies and young children. It complements and extends the DfES Birth to Three Matters framework, which supports practitioners in working with children aged birth to three, and builds on the information provided in the companion book Birth to Three Matters: Supporting the Framework of Effective Practice (Open University Press, 2004). Written by academics, practitioners and policy makers interested or involved in the development of the Birth to Three Matters framework, this book argues that parent engagement is essential for developing partnerships within communities in order to give children the best start in life, and shows how this can be achieved. The book: Discusses ways in which services may be developed to involve parents more fully in the care and education of babies and young children Looks at the powerful role of parents and grandparents in the lives of children Considers how skilled practitioners can manage relationships to provide support for both parents and children at difficult times Explores the ways in which parents can be helped to fulfil their own needs at the same time as meeting their children’s needs Includes discussion of families whose children have special needs or disabilities Parents Matter is essential reading for early years professionals and students on courses in Early Education, as well as policy makers, professional development trainers, local authority trainers, social workers and health visitors who work with very young children.

"The quality of children's experiences, and the engagement of their parents, particularly in these early years, is critical to better outcomes that will impact on the child right into adolescence and adulthood. While we have done much to expand quantity, we also must keep working on quality. This book is a key tool for both practitioners delivering services and managers designing and commissioning them." Naomi Eisenstadt, Director, Sure Start Unit, Department for Education and Skills Birth to Three Matters is essential reading for anyone involved in providing care and education or developing policy for children between birth and three. The book: Explores the structure and content of the DfES Birth to Three Matters Framework Supports the use of the pack by providing more detail, background information, and discussion of current research and case studies in Early Years Examines a range of issues that impact on the development of quality in early years settings Features contributions from influential early years experts, many of whom were involved in the development of the Birth to Three Matters Framework Topics include national and international policy and research, practitioners, quality, anti-discriminatory practice, inclusion, safety, and training. A sound theoretical approach is supported and enhanced by a highly practical section, which links to the framework and shows how how observation, play, interaction and creativity affects work with very young children. This book supports a variety of professionals involved in the development of policy, practice and quality in early years settings, as well as students seeking to understand more about the Birth to Three Matters Framework and the issues that influence work with this age group.

Written by academics, practitioners and policy makers interested or involved in the development of the Birth to Three Matters framework, this book argues that parent engagement is essential for developing partnerships within communities in order to give children the best start in life, and shows how this can be achieved.

This book summarises the ideas of educational theorists and psychologists of the last 60 years, from Elinor Goldschmied to Tina Bruce. It also looks at the important contemporary issues in early years education, from whether boys and girls learn differently to the role of the community in the early years setting.

How do you broach family values with seven year olds? Can you help young children understand racism? Can you avoid bringing your own prejudices into the classroom? Talking effectively about controversial issues with young children is a challenge facing every primary school teacher. Tackling Controversial Issues in the Primary School provides teachers with support and guidance as you engage with the more tricky questions and topics you and your pupils encounter. Illuminated with case studies and examples of how teachers and children have confronted issues together, this book helps you understand your own perspectives and provides fresh approaches for the primary classroom. It considers how best to work with parents and carers, whole-school policies for tackling issues, and ideas for circle time, setting up international links, school councils and buddying systems. The range of challenging topics covered includes: family values racism in mono and multi-cultural settings democracy and citizenship the environment and sustainability consumerism, finances and media advertising gender, health and identity grief and loss. For all student and practising primary teachers, Tackling Controversial Issues in the Primary School provides much needed support as you help your learners face complicated ideas, find their voice and get involved in the issues that they feel make a difference.

This inspiring book shows how Early Years staff can support the best possible practice for children under three and their families whilst making use of the limited funding available. Promoting the idea of infants as powerful learners, the authors focus on 0-3 years as the vital first phase of education and care, which can require a very specific pedagogical approach. They discuss the principles that underpin the practice of working with the youngest children, the critical nature of highly effective pedagogical practice and the important role of family workers in building relationships with parents and the extended family. Working with Children Aged 0–3 and Their Families explores the challenges and responsibilities of working with young children and communicates the ‘Pen Green approach’. Pen Green has become a focal point for Early Years professionals due to its outstanding Early Years provision. The innovative approach chronicled in this book will encourage practitioners to research their own practice and use the outcomes to create a radical, unique and yet highly effective provision for infants, toddlers and their families. The book will be of interest to Early Years professionals, foundation and undergraduate students, and early childhood educators.

This core introductory textbook offers an accessible yet rigorous approach to Early Childhood issues, addressing both Care and Education in the Early Years. It presents a multi-disciplinary perspective and will add value to any Early Childhood Studies course at both foundation and degree level. This text engages the reader by providing real-world examples that underpin theoretical perspectives and bring examples to life, whilst providing the student with an opportunity to reflect on their own similar experiences. The book is supported with a range of useful supplementary materials including an exciting companion website package.