Inclusive education in the early years: right from the start

Inclusive Education in the Early Years introduces key concepts of inclusion, disability and inclusive education within the context of early childhood education. It focuses on effective approaches to facilitating inclusive education in the early years, addresses the Key Learning Areas and incorporates consideration of the prior to school, transition and early childhood school years. The text covers critical aspects of teacher development in relation to fostering inclusive language and communication, enabling social interactions (including play) and supporting positive behaviour development. Inclusive Education in the Early Years encourages and supports educators and other early years professionals to develop their own skills, knowledge and confidence in creating inclusive early years learning environments. Key features: up to date with the contemporary Australian context for early childhood education, including consideration of the Early Years Learning Framework of Australia and the current legislative and policy framework; builds on current research and engages with the field of Disability Studies in Education; case studies reflect personal accounts from children, parents and teachers highlight factors that facilitate inclusion; reflection exercises and critical reflection questions throughout encourage readers to think about key themes of the book and ignite further discussion.