Sage Publications Creating a Learning Environment for Babies and Toddlers

Shortlisted for the 2012 Nursery World Awards! Understanding the factors that contribute to a positive learning environment is vital for those working with children from birth to 3 years. Using extensive case study material, Ann Clare focuses on the experiences of babies and toddlers in various care settings, and the role adults play in developing creative and supportive environments. The effect on speech and language development is explored, with reference to recent research and initiatives. Information gathered from parents and childcare workers helps provide a deep consideration of parents′ childcare choices. Topics covered include: - the emotional environment - the role of adults in the environment - the physical environment - the creative environment - parents and the environment - observing and questioning This detailed study of current research and literature provides an invaluable source of information for those planning to work with babies and toddlers, as well as experienced childminders wanting to reflect on the care and learning they offer children and families. Ann Clare is an Early Years Foundation Stage Consultant in England. Review ′Highly recommended. Ann Clare challenges some widely used theorists and successfully argues the importance of interactions between adult carers and our youngest children, in an appropriate early childhood environment. This text is absolutely current and relevant to the Early Years Sector. A wonderful contribution from a new researcher and writer′ - Chelle Davison, Senior Lecturer in Early Years Professional Practice, Leeds Metropolitan University ′The book includes a large number of case studies that illustrate practice in the two nurseries that the author worked with while gathering her research data. The text is fully up to date and makes reference to recently published reports and reviews that have been instrumental in shaping current early years policy developments′-Early Years Update ′This text is very current and wholly relevant to the early years sector...The book includes extensive case study material and honest quotes from practicing practitioners, which help to make this academic read very accessible′-Martine Horvath, Early Years Educator About the Author Ann Clare began her career as a secondary school English teacher. It was after having her three children, Felicity, Edward and Hannah,  that she became the head of a small village private nursery school at the same time as studying for her Master’s degree. Ann followed this by becoming an Early Years Consultant working for two North West local authorities. A chance conversation with Professor Cathy Nutbrown encouraged her to further her studies at the University of Sheffield where she graduated with her PhD, researching babies and young children under three. This research led Ann on to write her first book, Creating a Learning Environment for Babies and Toddlers in 2012 and to co-author a second edition of Working with Babies and Toddlers with Jools Page and Cathy Nutbrown in 2013. The arrival of Ann’s two grandchildren, Oscar and Lottie, further inspired her to write this new book focusing on interaction and communication in the early years. Ann is now enjoying a happy retirement which is filled with her continued work with the University of Sheffield, making bread and visiting her gorgeous grandchildren in Germany. Interested in Talking With Children and Quality Interactions? This free Web Summit, taking place Monday 12th September is for you!