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Knowing when children and young people are struggling, and identifying the best ways of supporting them is vital. This is all the more important when working with children with varying learning difficulties who may not always be able to communicate their feelings.
By demystifying terms such as mental health, wellbeing, learning difficulties and the sensitivities surrounding labels, this practical and evidence-based guide helps you achieve an in-depth understanding of the children and young people you work with. It provides you with skills and knowledge for supporting their mental health and wellbeing in educational settings - from nursery to secondary school in both mainstream and specialist environments with talking and non-verbal communication approaches to accommodate varying needs. Most importantly its holistic approach explores the interaction between the child's learning difficulties and the psychological, social and environmental factors which influence how they manage their ups and downs in life. This lets you think beyond the child and the classroom.
"An easy read with something for everyone. Child-centred, with easy language, practical ideas and examples, help to inspire and challenge you. It's a must have handbook to dip into and go back to time and again."
- Sue Hewitt, Principal Beacon Hill Academy, Chair Federation of Leaders in Special Education
"A much-needed text for school psychologists and special educators. Readers will appreciate the explicit guidance on how to conceptualise academic difficulties, use data to inform the selection of evidence-based interventions and monitor progress. Useful tools and case studies are available in each chapter. A particularly compelling feature of this text is the elegant yet simple approach to direct academic assessment using evidence-based techniques that align with intervention selection."
- Kathleen Tait, Associate Professor, Severe and complex disabilities, Macquarie University, Australia
"An excellent coverage in assessment of wellbeing for children with learning difficulties. Taking an Educational Psychologist's perspective, this engaging book offers an evidence-informed, theoretically-driven approach with case studies and reflections points."
- Tracey Colville, Dr, registered teacher and Lecturer in Educational Psychology, University of Dundee
"This is a superb, readable, treasure chest of a book. Kirstie writes with all the authority, integrity and compassion gained from considerable experience in the field, producing an indispensable resource."
- Phil Stringer, Educational Psychologist & Programme Co-Director, Educational Psychology Group, University College London.
