EBOOK: Treasure Baskets and Beyond: Realizing the Potential of Sensory-rich Play

EBOOK: Treasure Baskets and Beyond: Realizing the Potential of Sensory-rich Play

Author: Sue Gascoyne

Publisher: McGraw-Hill Education (UK)

Published: 2012-08-16

Total Pages: 202

ISBN-13: 0335246451

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"This accomplished book represents an impressive and important extension of previous writing in the field and is sure to expand practitioners’ understanding of the fascinating medium that is the treasure basket." Janet Moyles, Professor Emeritus, Anglia Ruskin University, UK Watching a child play with a Treasure Basket can give a powerful insight into the wonder of children’s minds; their developmental levels, interests, likes and dislikes; repeated patterns of behaviour; and even glimpses of a child’s personality. This book draws extensively upon observations of children’s play as well as contemporary and original research in neuroscience and sensory play, to offer fresh insights into the use and benefits of Treasure Baskets and sensory-rich play. The book demonstrates how babies through to primary school children, including those with special educational needs, can derive rich and meaningful hands-on learning from sensory-rich objects and the wider application of sensory play. Key features of the book: Discovering how sensory play presents opportunities for problem solving and meaning making as well as developing creativity and imagination Understanding the benefits and potential of sensory-rich play and its powerful effect upon brain development and memory Learning about the role of the adult in supporting and maximising sensory-rich play Gaining insights from a range of case studies and activities If you have already witnessed deeply absorbing Treasure Basket play in action and marvelled at children’s fascination and focus, then this book helps explain something of the ‘behind the scenes’ processes in action. For those who have not yet encountered this deceptively complex play, this book whets the appetite, giving a taste of what Treasure Baskets and sensory-rich play have to offer. This timely and empowering book is written for practitioners and students working with babies through to primary-aged children.


The Relationship Worlds of Infants and Toddlers: Multiple Perspectives from Early Years Theory and Practice

The Relationship Worlds of Infants and Toddlers: Multiple Perspectives from Early Years Theory and Practice

Author: Sheila Degotardi

Publisher: McGraw-Hill Education (UK)

Published: 2014-10-16

Total Pages: 170

ISBN-13: 0335263011

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The Relationship Worlds of Infants and Toddlers explores the concept of relationships as a core element of early childhood education and care. Taking as its starting point that children from birth to three learn and develop in a network of relationships, it examines what these relationships look and feel like, how they can be fostered and why they are important for children, educators and families who are involved in early years settings. In particular, it examines: Which kinds of relationships are important in early education and care settings? How can we understand the characteristics and meaning of these relationships for individuals and groups? How can we use our understandings to build relationships in early childhood programmes that benefit children, families and educators? The authors approach the topic of relationships in infant-toddler early childhood and care settings from a range of different perspectives. Drawing on real-world examples from their own research, they show how - by understanding the diverse features and functions of the many relationships at play in infant-toddler early childhood programmes - it is possible to create opportunities to strengthen these relationships and enhance the learning opportunities that these relationships provide. Compelling reading for both early years students and professionals this book provides a valuable resource with which to approach the diversity and dynamics of infant and toddler relationships.


EBOOK: The New Early Years Foundation Stage: Changes, Challenges and Reflections

EBOOK: The New Early Years Foundation Stage: Changes, Challenges and Reflections

Author: Pat Beckley

Publisher: McGraw-Hill Education (UK)

Published: 2013-08-16

Total Pages: 218

ISBN-13: 0335246990

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This book provides a timely overview of the revised Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework and explores what this means for early years' pedagogy and practice. As well as discussing the philosophy and rationale underpinning the changes, there are practical suggestions to support practitioners with the implementation of the revised framework, as well as insights from experienced professionals who share their knowledge and understanding and support you in reflecting on your own principles and practice. The book: Fosters deep understanding of the revised EYFS framework Provides a valuable source of reference for early years students and practitioners Promotes and helps develop good practice in early years Offers reflections and insights from experienced professionals into key areas of practice Makes links between the EYFS and current research, theory and practice The book draws on a wealth of expertise to provide an essential handbook for all early years students, practitioners and academics who are privileged to be involved with the care and education of young children. "This contemporary and relevant text explores, from multiple perspectives, the key challenges facing early years practitioners at a time of unprecedented change in education. It systematically explores and offers insights into the many agencies including education, health and social care that work together to enable high quality early years practice to be developed. By drawing on a range of professionals in the field, it challenges the reader to critically analyse the characteristics of effective early learning and to consider the key underpinning pedagogy that informs it. It is accessible to a wide audience including students, researchers, teacher trainers and practitioners. I would strongly recommend it as a set text on our Primary and Early Years PGCE course." Derval Carey-Jenkins, Principal Lecturer: PGCE Primary and Early Years Course Leader, University of Worcester, UK "This contemporary book focusing on the new Early Years Foundation Stage is an essential read for those studying and delivering early years curriculum and pedagogy. The book draws on theory, research, policy and practice and ensures that the chapters have significance to all early years practitioners. It challenges the reader to think reflectively about the EYFS and what is appropriate provision to support and develop young children's learning. The book is effectively organised into four relevant parts and is a very accessible read, often exemplifying high quality provision through interesting research observations, case studies and scenarios." Dr Avril Brock, Principal Lecturer in Early Childhood Education, Leeds Metropolitan University, UK Contributors: Jan Ashbridge, Pat Beckley, Emma Butcher, Elizabeth Carruthers, Liz Creed, Julie Kitchen, Rachel Sparks Linfield, Estelle Martin, Jane Murray, Jackie Musgrave, Kathy Ring, Anita Soni, Corinne Syrnyk


Effective Practice In The Eyfs: An Essential Guide

Effective Practice In The Eyfs: An Essential Guide

Author: Hutchin, Vicky

Publisher: McGraw-Hill Education (UK)

Published: 2013-04-01

Total Pages: 170

ISBN-13: 0335247539

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In this compelling new book Vicky Hutchin provides an accessible and readable guide to effective practice in the revised EYFS which Explains the revised EYFS areas of learning and development Considers the three 'characteristics of effective learning' and the implications for practitioners in their interactions with children and the provision they make for them Explores in detail the role of practitioners and parents in supporting children's learning and development Examines the importance of partnership with parents in their children's learning and development and how to develop this Details the observation, assessment and planning cycle with a particular focus on the statutory summative assessment, the 'Progress Check at Age Two' This is the revised EYFS brought to life for early years practitioners, professionals and students. Threaded throughout the book are real case studies taken from a range of inspiring early years settings. These are backed up by interviews with practitioners as they reflect on and develop their practice to ensure the best support for young children's development, learning and wellbeing. Each chapter makes reference to relevant research and includes 'top tips for effective practice'. "Effective Practice in the EYFS is a clear, comprehensive and accessible exposition of the new EYFS and its requirements for practitioners. Using case studies, examples from settings and observations of children, Vicky Hutchin brings breadth and depth to each aspect of the EYFS and ensures that practitioners have a principled understanding of the importance and relevance of each aspect of their work with young children. The Characteristics of Early Learning are given appropriate significance and can be seen to underpin all subsequent chapters. The Prime and Specific Areas of Learning are each highlighted with great clarity and every chapter concludes with 'Top Tips for Effective Practice' which could be used to create a development plan by any setting wanting to reflect on current practice. This book would be valuable for all practitioners but particularly those new to the early years and wanting a clear reference guide to all that is important about teaching in this phase." Julie Fisher, Independent Early Years Advisor "This book will guide practitioners on their journey into the new requirements of the EYFS, and will build confidence. It is written with clarity, encourages common sense and draws on the good practice of real settings together with useful reference to research and literature. Just what is needed!" Professor Tina Bruce CBE, University of Roehampton, UK "As an Essential Guide to the revised EYFS Vicky Hutchin's book covers everything a practitioner needs to know and think about. The emphasis on the Characteristics of Effective Learning ensures that the reader understands right from the outset that HOW children learn rather than WHAT they learn is a priority. There are clear explanations of the Characteristics which are underpinned by the theory of how children learn and develop, including important connections to the psychology of children's early learning. Vicky has woven together the statutory requirements of the EYFS with examples of good early years practice and the voice of the child. The central strand of observation and interpreting how children are learning supports practitioners'understanding and gives them helpful directions to the work of Ferre Laevers, Julie Fisher and others. There is a strong reflective element running through the book with helpful case studies, questions to think about and useful summaries at the end of each chapter. Chapter 12 helpfully directs the reader to think about the EYFS as an evaluative tool to improve the quality of practice. These are the strengths of Vicky's book along with the following A good explanation of school readiness Clear explanations of child initiated and adult- led thinking and learning Links to parental involvement throughout the book as well as a dedicated chapter Assessment which is child focussed and based in the context of observation and planning next steps. The messages are clear and respectful of children Unpicking each area of learning and making the linksbetween theory and practice as well as a frequent reminderof the holistic nature of children's development and learning Top tips for effective practice and points for reflection" Di Chilvers, Advisory Consultant in Early Childhood


Sophie's World

Sophie's World

Author: Jostein Gaarder

Publisher: Farrar, Straus and Giroux

Published: 2007-03-20

Total Pages: 599

ISBN-13: 1466804270

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A page-turning novel that is also an exploration of the great philosophical concepts of Western thought, Jostein Gaarder's Sophie's World has fired the imagination of readers all over the world, with more than twenty million copies in print. One day fourteen-year-old Sophie Amundsen comes home from school to find in her mailbox two notes, with one question on each: "Who are you?" and "Where does the world come from?" From that irresistible beginning, Sophie becomes obsessed with questions that take her far beyond what she knows of her Norwegian village. Through those letters, she enrolls in a kind of correspondence course, covering Socrates to Sartre, with a mysterious philosopher, while receiving letters addressed to another girl. Who is Hilde? And why does her mail keep turning up? To unravel this riddle, Sophie must use the philosophy she is learning—but the truth turns out to be far more complicated than she could have imagined.


Starting Strong Engaging Young Children Lessons from Research about Quality in Early Childhood Education and Care

Starting Strong Engaging Young Children Lessons from Research about Quality in Early Childhood Education and Care

Author: OECD

Publisher: OECD Publishing

Published: 2018-03-27

Total Pages: 166

ISBN-13: 9264085149

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The first years of life lay the foundations for a child’s future development and learning. Reflecting on the important role of early childhood education and care (ECEC) services in providing all children with the skills they need to be successful in school, many countries have increased their ...


The Inner Game of Tennis

The Inner Game of Tennis

Author: W. Timothy Gallwey

Publisher: Random House Trade Paperbacks

Published: 1997-05-27

Total Pages: 193

ISBN-13: 0679778314

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The timeless guide to achieving the state of “relaxed concentration” that’s not only the key to peak performance in tennis but the secret to success in life itself—now in a 50th anniversary edition with an updated epilogue, a foreword by Bill Gates, and an updated preface from NFL coach Pete Carroll “Groundbreaking . . . the best guide to getting out of your own way . . . Its profound advice applies to many other parts of life.”—Bill Gates, GatesNotes (“Five of My All-Time Favorite Books”) This phenomenally successful guide to mastering the game from the inside out has become a touchstone for hundreds of thousands of people. Billie Jean King has called the book her tennis bible; Al Gore has used it to focus his campaign staff; and Itzhak Perlman has recommended it to young violinists. Based on W. Timothy Gallwey’s profound realization that the key to success doesn’t lie in holding the racket just right, or positioning the feet perfectly, but rather in keeping the mind uncluttered, this transformative book gives you the tools to unlock the potential that you’ve possessed all along. “The Inner Game” is the one played within the mind of the player, against the hurdles of self-doubt, nervousness, and lapses in concentration. Gallwey shows us how to overcome these obstacles by trusting the intuitive wisdom of our bodies and achieving a state of “relaxed concentration.” With chapters devoted to trusting the self and changing habits, it is no surprise then, that Gallwey’s method has had an impact far beyond the confines of the tennis court. Whether you want to play music, write a novel, get ahead at work, or simply unwind after a stressful day, Gallwey shows you how to tap into your utmost potential. In this fiftieth-anniversary edition, the principles of the Inner Game shine through as more relevant today than ever before. No matter your goals, The Inner Game of Tennis gives you the definitive framework for long-term success.


The Absorbent Mind

The Absorbent Mind

Author: Maria Montessori

Publisher: Simon and Schuster

Published: 2013-03-25

Total Pages: 316

ISBN-13: 1625588682

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The Absorbent Mind was Maria Montessori's most in-depth work on her educational theory, based on decades of scientific observation of children. Her view on children and their absorbent minds was a landmark departure from the educational model at the time. This book helped start a revolution in education. Since this book first appeared there have been both cognitive and neurological studies that have confirmed what Maria Montessori knew decades ago.


The Art of Being Human

The Art of Being Human

Author: Michael Wesch

Publisher: Createspace Independent Publishing Platform

Published: 2018-08-07

Total Pages: 370

ISBN-13: 9781724963673

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Anthropology is the study of all humans in all times in all places. But it is so much more than that. "Anthropology requires strength, valor, and courage," Nancy Scheper-Hughes noted. "Pierre Bourdieu called anthropology a combat sport, an extreme sport as well as a tough and rigorous discipline. ... It teaches students not to be afraid of getting one's hands dirty, to get down in the dirt, and to commit yourself, body and mind. Susan Sontag called anthropology a "heroic" profession." What is the payoff for this heroic journey? You will find ideas that can carry you across rivers of doubt and over mountains of fear to find the the light and life of places forgotten. Real anthropology cannot be contained in a book. You have to go out and feel the world's jagged edges, wipe its dust from your brow, and at times, leave your blood in its soil. In this unique book, Dr. Michael Wesch shares many of his own adventures of being an anthropologist and what the science of human beings can tell us about the art of being human. This special first draft edition is a loose framework for more and more complete future chapters and writings. It serves as a companion to anth101.com, a free and open resource for instructors of cultural anthropology. This 2018 text is a revision of the "first draft edition" from 2017 and includes 7 new chapters.