Music in the Early Years is for teachers working across the 3 to 8 age phase who want to make music integral to the life of the nursery and early years classroom. Music has often been taught as if it were different, something outside the mainstream curriculum, with teaching approaches quite at odds with early years work. This book takes children's development as its basis and works towards building a music pedagogy within early years practice. A readiness to listen, observe and reflect is central to the practice which threads through the book. Based on the authors' extensive experience and drawing on that of other teachers and researchers, lots of well-tried, practical ideas show how teachers, parents and carers can help children fulfil their music potential. Sample activities model ways of working with children and have been written in such a way that they can be substituted with other material and adapted for further use. Earlier and later stages of learning and progression are described as a basis for matching activities with children's learning needs, as well as a companion book, Primary Music: Later Years.

Research findings repeatedly show that music is one of the subjects which teachers feel least confident to tackle. There are many reasons for this, not least being the lack of appropriate guidance and training. This book is designed to help overcome these problems by providing class teachers with clear advice on how to plan, resource and deliver a comprehensive programme which will challenge their pupils and enable them to progress and meet national requirements. The book includes examples and activities which can be used as a basis for in-service training within schools, particularly for teachers who regard themselves as non-specialists.

Music and singing are an inherent part of children’s lives and offer a wonderful opportunity to promote young children’s learning and development. This how-to guide is full of useful information to support musical understanding and assist practitioners in developing their knowledge, skills and confidence in planning and leading successful and enjoyable musical activities in a range of early years settings. Focusing on the role of singing and children’s musical learning at various stages of development, Music and Singing in the Early Years aims to demystify music by providing practical tips, ideas and information on the integration of musical activities in the early years curriculum and environment, and provides clear explanations of musical concepts. Chapters consider topics such as: vocal strategies and development using song, rhyme and movement integrating instrumental accompaniments observation and assessment planning and delivery resources for music making. This book is essential reading for all early years practitioners looking to improve their musical understanding and plan successful musical activities with young children.

This book will help early years educators understand the nature, form, and content of the curriculum for children aged 3 to 7 and the most appropriate ways of presenting it.

This core text for early childhood studies and early years students focuses on communication, language and literacy in the pre-school years. The text begins by discussing language acquisition and development covering development theory, talking with babies and the factors that affect development. It goes on to give guidance on how to support children's language acquisition through rhymes, songs, story books and storytelling. Finally, it examines the roots of literacy and asks 'what comes before phonics?' Interactive activities are included throughout to engage the reader and research focus features help students make essential links between theory and practice.

Combining theoretical perspectives with practical activities, the Second Edition of Gifted and Talented in the Early Years offers clear guidance on how to ensure you and your setting can identify and provide for very young children in your care who are gifted and talented. With an emphasis on providing the best learning opportunities for all, there is advice for teachers and all staff working in early years settings. Everything suggested has been tried and tested by author Margaret Sutherland in her work with children over many years as a specialist in this field.

This book explores learning in the early years and emphasises the importance of learning in social contexts, through the senses and within close relationships. It moves away from the focus on ‘learning’ as the acquisition of knowledge, and instead emphasises the importance of personal, social and emotional development in early years education. Arguing that young children learn best when they are supported by reliable, engaged and attentive people who know them well, this book challenges readers to reflect on their own practice and think about how emotions play a part in young children’s learning and development. Each chapter of this book discusses a different aspect of emotional, sensory and social learning, from philosophical perspectives on learning, leadership and inclusive practice, to the importance of promoting the development of children’s emotional intelligence, forming close attachments to children, and encouraging them to learn through their senses. The reader is provided with a wealth of ideas and examples for application in the classroom. Numerous practical examples, reference to contemporary research, and the authors’ acknowledgement of the challenges faced by practitioners make this an inspiring and pertinent resource for new and experienced teachers and practitioners, as well as trainees and students in the fields of early years and primary education. Readers will develop the skills needed to engage in outstanding, learning-focused practice.

This edited book brings together renowned experts in music therapy and related fields to present current research, practical strategies, and policies useful for everyone interested in music as a tool to aid children on the autism spectrum. Case scenarios, examples and tip sheets further support the application of the knowledge-based content.

Designed for students on Early Years Foundation Degrees and Early Childhood courses, Early Years professionals and Teaching Assistants, this engaging text provides a comprehensive introduction to the field of early childhood. Written and edited by experts in the field, the book clearly explains theory through illustrations of good practice, with case studies, reflective exercises and suggestions for further reading. Additional case studies and reflective questions for student or lecturer′s use can be found on the SAGE website. Each chapter has been revised with an emphasis on encouraging reflective practice and there are new chapters on: - personal, social, and emotional development - EYPS - health and safeguarding children This brand new edition has also been updated in light of the new Early Years Foundation Stage, and addresses the needs of students working towards Early Years Professional Status (EYPS).