An excellent starting point for those working with children with BSED and promotes developmental methods and reflective practice.

Early Years Educator, 01/09/07

Written for Early Years Practitioners, this is an attractive and easy to read informative little paper back (13cm x 20cm). It concerns itself mainly with behavioural, emotional and social difficulties (SEBD) that may affect learning and development. Its well qualified author (Social Worker and Early Years Childhood Studies Lecturer) brings us bang up to date with this fast moving and changing field, giving us details and references of past and present studies; up to date websites and numerous other apposite references. She starts by putting the subject into context, explaining the Code of Practice and how SEBD fits in, seeking to provide us with an understanding of the complex factors that affect a child's development and to help us recognise our role within this. Employing bullet points and case studies throughout, she summarises each chapter and indicates the learning outcomes to be achieved e.g. the range of issues and difficulties children may experience; some reasons why they may occur - putting them into their social context (school or home). She illustrates and helps us understand the relationship between SEBD and a range of learning difficulties, disabilities and more complex needs e.g. mental health, Autism Spectrum Disorder etc. There is discussion on the Framework of Support for children with SEBD with particular emphasis on early identification and assessment, the role of the setting; inclusion and partnership. Covering the role of the Special Educational Needs Co-ordinating Officer (SENCO), Individual Education Plans; up to date legislation and initiatives and how to support these children; specific interventions; meeting emotional needs; working with other professionals are all covered and finally self reflection - Yes this book is getting it right. 9/10      

Jean Jones.