This book offers an engaging exploration of artistic expression in early childhood education. Through a blend of theory, research, and practical insights, the authors demonstrate the positive impact of the arts on fostering inclusion in various settings. Delving into creative modes such as dance, drama, and music, the book emphasizes the broader significance of integrating creativity into inclusive practices. Rich with illustrative case studies, thought-provoking prompts, and effective strategies for encouraging artistic expression, it serves as a valuable resource for early childhood students seeking comprehensive support in their educational journey.

This title works to provide students with an introduction to different types of artistic expression within early childhood. Combining theory, research and practical strategies, the authors present how the arts can be beneficial in fostering inclusion through a range of settings.

Inclusive education faces a critical challenge rooted in an outdated paradigm that treats students as fixer-upper projects rather than recognizing their holistic needs. The prevalent toolbox approach, governed by frameworks like MTSS and RTI, tends to prioritize immediate academic gains, neglecting the intricate tapestry of students' identities, cultural nuances, and unique strengths. This myopic strategy fails to foster sustained growth and well-being, undermining the true potential of inclusive education. Addressing this pervasive issue, Decolonizing Inclusive Education: Centering Heartwork, Care, and Listening, provides a groundbreaking solution. By shifting the focus to heartwork, care, and listening, the book pioneers a decolonizing praxis in inclusive education. It challenges the prevailing tool-centric model and advocates for an approach that embraces the diverse identities, funds of knowledge, and cultural understandings of students. The book delves into topics such as classroom stories, engaging families, funds of knowledge, and decentering whiteness, offering a comprehensive guide to transform inclusive education into a space that not only acknowledges but celebrates the holistic well-being and growth of every student.

This conference focused on the central role of play and arts throughout the early childhood years, the unique learning styles of young children (ages 3-8), and children's developmental needs. Special emphasis was placed on curriculum, assessment, the essential role of the arts in learning, multicultural awareness, needs of special populations, and the interrelatedness of the arts in the learning process. The participants were early childhood and arts educators who have responsibility for designing and implementing quality educational experiences for young children. The book is organized into four major sections. Section 1, "General Sessions," provides theoretical material in the areas of curriculum development, arts assessment, and child development. The second section, "Specific Arts Instruction," contains many practical activities as well as theoretical discourses in music, art, dance, and drama. Section 3, "Model Programs," describes three well-developed arts programs. The final section, "Multicultural/International Programs," includes information about creative arts programs of various countries and a multicultural perspective for program development. (LL)

B>" This book explains how to integrate developmentally appropriate practices into a curriculum and offers practical tips for working in the early childhood classroom." Developmentally appropriate practice continues to form the backbone for this revision of a leading introductory text on early childhood education. All aspects of helping young children ages 3-8 are covered in this comprehensive book that stresses the "best practices" put forth by the National Association for the Education of Young Children. Voices from practicing early childhood caregivers, improved coverage on diversity, and parent involvement techniques are all included in this new edition. In addition, new technologies are incorporated, emphasizing how the Internet can be used to better understand the development of and the issues concerning young children, while also enhancing one's teaching." For early childhood educators, Nursery School and Kindergarten Teachers.

A basic listing of all accredited graduate programs at universitites in the U.S and Canada.