'Joe is Joe, a different label is not going to make him suddenly think he is someone else' (Joe's Mum)

Quotations like this about five year old Joe are used to illustrate this text, which draws on the experience of learning disabilities in the family. Peter Burke and Katy Cigno provide helpful definitions and reflect on some preliminary, but important theoretical ideas linking to social exclusion and vulnerability. Drawing on research and experience, different aspects of family lives are illustrated in all their diversity. The implications of stressful times, major upheavals and transitions for family members are examined in detail, indicating when help from professionals should be readily available.

Learning Disabilities in Children introduces the theory relating to learning disabilities from the family perspective, and includes an examination of support systems for parents, caregivers and siblings. The authors emphasize why contact from service providers is necessary, particularly those based in health, education and welfare agencies. In addition, the need to give power to children and families as a multi-agency responsibility is addressed, with the aim of promoting positive practice in the professional sector for the benefit of the children involved.

Learning Disabilities in Children is a useful resource for postgraduates specializing in child welfare, social work and community care. It will also be of interest to social workers, community caregivers, healthcare professionals and teachers, as well as to families where there is a child with learning disabilities.

Key features:
*Based on the experience of families with children who have learning disabilities
*A practical guide for professionals and care givers seeking to clarify and understand family needs
*Explains how a more inclusive partnership between children, their families and professionals may be achieved
*Includes a chapter on child development
*Provides a unifying framework for working in the complex field of childhood learning disabilities.

Learning Disabilities in Children is a useful resource for postgraduates specializing in child welfare, social work and community care. It will also be of interest to social workers, community caregivers, healthcare professionals and teachers, and families where there is a child with learning disabilities.

About the Author

Peter Burke is Professor Emeritus of Cultural History of Cambridge University.

Reviews
"This is an easily read book which I found both interesting and useful....[which] provides a useful resource for professionals wanting to improve their practice."
British Journal of Learning Disabilities

"This is a useful resource for those specialising in child welfare and community care"
Aslib Book Guide

"Peter Burke and Kathy Cigno succeed in providing a resource which serves those whose interests may be more professional or personal than academic."

"This is a well written and well researched book which is easy to read. The text is sound and realistic in its approach - a welcome addition to the promotion of positive practice for children with learning disabilities and their families."
Learning Disability Practice

Book Information
ISBN 9780632051045
Author Peter Burke
Format Paperback
Page Count 196
Imprint Wiley-Blackwell
Publisher John Wiley and Sons Ltd
Weight(grams) 299g
Dimensions(mm) 235mm * 160mm * 17mm