Diversity and Inclusion in Early Childhood
An Introduction
- Chandrika Devarakonda - University of Chester, UK
With case studies and activities designed to help students relate to diverse situations, the author discusses the main issues surrounding:
- race
- gender
- culture
- disability and Special Educational Needs
- English as an Additional Language
- Traveller children
- the contexts of inclusion and exclusion
- good practice in early childhood settings
- different perspectives of inclusion
This is essential reading for students studying inclusion and diversity on early childhood or early years courses, and those seeking to promote good practice and enable all children to develop to their full potential irrespective of their background.
'The success of this book is in its ability to explore inclusion from a wide perspective. Offering a range of thought-provoking material, such as reflective questions, debates and controversies, practitioner, parent and children's views, legislation, activities, and examples of good practice, will keep readers interested and actively engaged throughout the book'
-Dr Anna Kilderry, Senior Lecturer, Early Childhood Education, Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
Chandrika Devarakonda is a Senior Lecturer in the Faculty of Education and Children's Services at the University of Chester.
An insightful and informed discussion of a range of perspectives on this aspect of children's experience positioned in Early Childhood education.
The constructive and powerful message of this book enables practitioners,students and researchers to continue to explore and review cultural reference points for their own practice and understanding about the legislation,research and policy as citizens of wider community and removing barriers to inclusion working for all.
Accessible style. Interesting chapter on culture with some thought provoking comments.
An accessible text which addresses some pertinent issues of diversity relevant to early years practitioners. However, the work closely resembles that published by Vini Lander and Gianna Knowles. I would have like to have seen a different slant/focus to this text.
This is a valuable introduction to the complexities and debates in diversity and inclusion on early childhood and has much to commend it.
Each chapter can be examined in isolation, although there is a clear thread of philosophy through the book. Of particular value to our students are chapters 6 and 7 as they successfully address the theoretical aspects of these huge areas whilst managing to keep an early years perspective - a definite gap in literary sources. Usually our students have to re-interpret materials intended for the primary phase.
From a teaching perspective the Research Issues are helpful pointers to extend students' thinking, as is the consistent format of each chapter identifying further debates. It will also be a recommended book for our UG modules on developing inclusive practice in early childhood.
This is an interesting book that could be essential for undergraduate students doing EY studies. The book explores some interesting concepts such as culture and inclusion. It gives many ideas of activities that students would enjoy.
I really enjoyed reading this book, very accessible, discusses a whole range of issues relating to inclusion. Was a good resource for my special needs module.
This is a comprehensive and informative book that addresses issues of inclusion beyond SEN. It has already proved valuable to students I have recommended it to while writing their final research projects.
Very good introductory source
Clear sections with sufficient depth for Level 4+ learners. Activities, reflection points, case studies and discussion points all of a good quality and very useful for utilising in lessons. Website links also useful.
An excellent source of information for anyone studying Diversity and Inclusion in Early Years.
