Autistic Spectrum Disorders in the Early Years

1. The Code of Practice for SEN - explaining the graduated response, the systems in education, the role of the SENc in the Early Years 2. The SEN and Disability Discrimination Act (2002)- how it impacts on the rights of individuals with ASD and their families. 3. Identification and Assessment- issues around diagnosis, assessment tools and monitoring progress. 4. Family relationships- how a child with ASD will impact on family dynamics- advice for parents and siblings 5. Roles and Responsibilities of Early Years Practioners- psychologists, G.Ps, health visitors, CAMHS, education, play groups, social services etc 6. Service Provision - good practice examples of multi-agency colloboration in service provision from health, social services, PPA and education 7. Partnership with Parents- the role of the voluntary sector, parent partnership shemes, family support groups, health, social services and education 8. Social Skills Training- personal hygiene, feeding, language and communication 9. Managing Behaviour- finding the triggers, using the right strategies, creating a stress free environment 10. Community Involvement- helping young children to cope in the outside world, leisure, shopping, local playgroup, nursery etc 11. Alternative Intervention and Home-Based Programmes- an objective overview of what's available 12. The Transition from School to Pre-School Services

'An extremely helpful, compact guide for anyone working in early years education... provides clear information for all professionals who work with children from birth to five with autistic spectrum disorders... A short, accessible and reader-friendly book that addresses the key issues' - Nursery Education