Knowing when children and young people are struggling, and identifying the best ways of supporting them is vital. This is all the more important when working with children with varying learning difficulties who may not always be able to communicate their feelings.

By demystifying terms such as mental health, wellbeing, learning difficulties and the sensitivities surrounding labels, this practical and evidence-based guide helps you achieve an in-depth understanding of the children and young people you work with. It provides you with skills and knowledge for supporting their mental health and wellbeing in educational settings - from nursery to secondary school in both mainstream and specialist environments with talking and non-verbal communication approaches to accommodate varying needs. Most importantly its holistic approach explores the interaction between the child's learning difficulties and the psychological, social and environmental factors which influence how they manage their ups and downs in life. This lets you think beyond the child and the classroom.

A practical guide for educators and professionals to support the mental health and wellbeing of children with learning differences

About the Author
Dr Kirstie Rees is a Depute Principal Educational Psychologist with significant experience of supporting children and young people with a range of learning difficulties. She has published research in this area and has presented at conferences in the UK and oversees. Kirstie is a Practice Tutor on the MSc in Educational Psychology at the University of Dundee. She is based in Glasgow, Scotland.

Reviews
An easy read with something for everyone. Child-centred, with easy language, practical ideas and examples, help to inspire and challenge you. It's a must have handbook to dip into and go back to time and again. -- Sue Hewitt, Principal Beacon Hill Academy, Chair Federation of Leaders in Special Education
I highly recommend this outstanding book. It is thorough, clear and accessible so that parents, teachers and other professionals can easily find vital information, activities and essential case studies. -- Andrew Colley, former senior lecturer in special education at the University of East London and author of a number of books and articles supporting the wellbeing of young people
A lucid, comprehensive and much needed exploration of this important subject. The combination of theory, case studies and practical 'toolbox' ideas makes this is an extremely valuable resource for professional development and reflection. -- Mike Sissons, Independent SEN consultant & author of 'Mapping and Assessing Personal Progress (MAPP)'
A much-needed text for school psychologists and special educators. Readers will appreciate the explicit guidance on how to conceptualise academic difficulties, use data to inform the selection of evidence-based interventions and monitor progress. Useful tools and case studies are available in each chapter. A particularly compelling feature of this text is the elegant yet simple approach to direct academic assessment using evidence-based techniques that align with intervention selection. -- Kathleen Tait, Associate Professor, Severe and complex disabilities, Macquarie University, Australia
An excellent coverage in assessment of wellbeing for children with learning difficulties. Taking an Educational Psychologist's perspective, this engaging book offers an evidence-informed, theoretically-driven approach with case studies and reflections points. -- Dr Tracey Colville, registered teacher and Lecturer in Educational Psychology, University of Dundee
This is a superb, readable, treasure chest of a book. Kirstie writes with all the authority, integrity and compassion gained from considerable experience in the field, producing an indispensable resource. -- Dr Phil Stringer, Educational Psychologist & Programme Co-Director, Educational Psychology Group, University College London.



Book Information
ISBN 9781839975486
Author Kirstie Rees
Format Paperback
Page Count 320
Imprint Jessica Kingsley Publishers
Publisher Jessica Kingsley Publishers
Weight(grams) 560g
Dimensions(mm) 244mm * 174mm * 20mm