Nurturing Children through the Primary Years

Book excerpt: This book argues that supporting a child’s learning in primary school is more about nurturing their dispositions than continually assessing their performance. Drawing on the latest research in the fields of child development, psychology, health and well-being, it shows how teachers and parents have a deep impact on children’s learning, motivation and potential and the practices that offer children the best opportunities for future success. Guided by the holistic approaches of the Nurturing Childhoods Pedagogical Framework and the ABCs of Developing Engagement, this book has a strong focus on increasing child engagement alongside methods to consider the impact of learning experiences. Chapters cover: Supporting engagement through communication, movement and play Helping children to feel safe and secure within their learning environments Developing classrooms where children think and express themselves Understanding childhood anxiety Nurturing confidence and self-motivation Working with parents and carers Anxiety within the classroom Ways of evaluating teaching styles and class dynamics Decoding children’s behaviours Part of the Nurturing Childhoods series, this exciting book provides teachers, practitioners and parents with the knowledge and understanding they need to nurture children’s happiness, well-being and sense of security throughout their school years.