Dealing with parents can be scary and intimidating, especially when you are relatively new to your role, but it can also be hugely rewarding. What do you need to know? Which barriers are you likely to face? Most importantly, how can you nurture a positive and authentic relationship with parents and carers where you genuinely work together for the best interests of the child? Written by authors who have experienced being on both sides of the fence, as educators and as parents, this practical book takes a frank approach to recognising the turbulent world of parenting and shines a light on issues that are, all too often, dismissed. It considers the pragmatic, kind, and caring ways that educational settings can support parents’ struggles, as well as benefitting from their wide-ranging knowledge and capabilities. With activities and reflections included throughout, the book invites the reader to consider their practice, and to look at their relationships with parents with fresh eyes, all whilst keeping the child in mind. With a focus on celebrating the value of truly listening and forming authentic relationships, this book will be essential reading for early years’ educators, childminders, primary teachers, TAs, and SENCOs.

Confused by all the conflicting parenting advice you hear? Not sure who is right or what to do? Well, relax and read this book. Ever wondered why your child gets more upset the nicer you are? Or why your child is always arguing with you, doesn’t listen or seems intent on doing the opposite of what you want? Now you no longer have to worry – Communicating with Kids has the answers. This new book explains how so often children are not resisting our messages but the way we are sending them. It demonstrates why some of the ways we communicate lead to exactly the opposite of the behaviour we want, and provides methods to tweak your language and approach so that children are willing to help you. So much of the parenting advice we hear works against a child’s developing brain, so this book shows you how to work with it instead – which makes all the difference. Once you understand the difference between what you are saying and what your child actually hears, life with children becomes so much easier. This book is all about communication because apart from that, there’s no other advice you need; the best way to bring up your child is to be yourself and do it your way. Communicating with Kids is a book guaranteed to help all parents, whether they veer towards the methods of Penelope Leach or Supernanny, or have never read a parenting book before. It is not based on any parenting ideology, but on genuine experience with a wide range of children. It is a plain-talking book that presents communication methods that work, so parents gain the confidence to be themselves.

"No one book resolves a lifetime of hurts and misunderstandings, but it can remove the blinders from our eyes. Make an effort now." LOS ANGELES TIMES No matter how old you are and whether or not your parents are alive, you have to come to terms with them. This wise and practical book will show you how to deal with the most fundamental relationships in your life and, in the process, become the happy, creative, and fulfilled person you are meant to be.

Rekindle your love for teaching with these attitude-adjusting tips and strategies for self-reflection. Among district demands, peer expectations, and a fierce schedule in a sometimes thankless industry, it's understandable how teachers can lose the love of teaching. It's time to take a breath and reflect. With "Crisscross Applesauce" you'll learn what you can do to progress as an effective teacher for the sake of both you and your students. It's set up in familiar, quick lesson plans perfect for the busy teacher. Each objective illustrates a relatable story followed by advice and examples that will help you examine your own experiences as an educator. Reflection questions at the end of each lesson help you answer the question, "How can I further develop my teaching style to rediscover the fun in teaching?"

[This title] operates on the radical premise that neither child nor parent must dominate. -- Review.

Make your everyday interactions with children intentional and purposeful with these steps: Be Present, Connect, and Extend Learning.

Focus on the wonder of learning with infants, toddlers, and twos. Use sensitive and responsive interactions and curriculum planning that support their development as effective communicators, problem solvers, and creative thinkers.