For preschool children with emotional difficulties arising from difficulties in attachment, standard observations used in early years settings are not always helpful in identifying their problems and providing guidance on how they can be helped.Combining an accessible introduction to attachment and child development with a child observation tool for identifying behaviour, and the emotional needs underlying this behaviour, this book enables early years professionals to identify problems and provide appropriate support. 'Case study' boxes help to illustrate typical patterns of attachment, and all aspects of behaviour are covered including play, interaction with peers, neediness, and aggression. A range of handouts and activities is included, and guidance provided on how to work within professional boundaries. Written in clear, concise language, Observing Preschool Children with Attachment or Emotional Difficulties aims to equip the reader with the knowledge and skills needed to identify and support children's emotional and social difficulties.Suitable for use with children aged 2 5, this guide will be an invaluable resource for early years professionals, as well as for use by clinicians, teachers and learning support staff.
Acknowledgements. Biographies. Foreword. Introduction. 1. Recognising the Emotional Needs of Children in Early Years Settings. 2. Observation Checklist. 3. Notes to Accompany Observation Checklist. 4. Developing Support to Meet the Emotional Needs of Children in Early Years Settings. 5. Challenges in Supporting the Emotional Needs of Children with Attachment Difficulties. Appendix 1. Attachment Theory and Early Years Settings. Appendix 2. Helping the Child with Attachment Difficulties in Early Years Settings. Appendix 3. Helping the Child with Different Attachment Styles in Early Years Settings. Appendix 4. Case Study 1. Appendix 5. Case Study 2. Appendix 6. Glossary. Appendix 7. Glossary for UK Education System. References.
'[W]ith increasing numbers of [staff] now becoming aware of the impact of relational trauma and loss upon the capacities of children in their care, tools such as those recommended here are welcomed. This book provides clear descriptors of some of the possible vulnerabilities around for these children and a framework through which to make sense of these vulnerabilities with an attachment focus... Dr Golding and her colleagues have made a significant contribution to inclusive practice by contributing this book Much of what these children need to learn can't be learnt alone through text books. They need you and me. Relationships matter. Let's take up our responsibility in ensuring that these children experience healthy secure attachment in our care so that they can be all that they can and want to be, making valuable contributions towards our shared society.'From the Foreword by Louise Bombèr, Attachment Support Teacher Therapist
