Book reviews - books for parents and teachers

Dyslexia (Talking It Through) by Althea 

Be Careful (Talking It Through) by Althea 

We can tell children to 'be careful' over and over again, but sometimes they don't learn until they have done something. This book, which features young children and their toys, is an excellent way to encourage children to heed the wise advice of adults. Practical situations, such as cooking, illustrate the potential dangers and show some very sensible children always taking the right course of action. Children will enjoy reading this as a story and at the same time they will be learning. Colourfully presented and packed with sensible and practical suggestions, this is a valuable book for home and school. RoSPA helped in the production.

I Can't Hear Like You (Talking It Through) by Althea 

It is hard for hearing children to understand the world of a deaf or partially hearing child, and too often such children (and adults) are treated as being less intelligent. Hearing problems re experienced by many children and yet they are not talked about on a regular basis - this short but meaningful book helps address that issue. Sensitively written from the viewpoint of a boy who wears a hearing aid, children learn to understand the difficulties he faces and how they can help others in a similar situation - and we see the boy helping another, who is profoundly deaf. An excellent classroom resource to help understanding.

Lunch Boxes (Talking It Through) by Althea 

A topical subject and one which can raise quite strong emotions amongst parents, who often resent being told how to feed their children. This practical book would be an excellent resource for teachers, either to show parents or to share with children, who will then pass on the healthy eating message. The book looks at some healthy lunch boxes and tells us why certain foods are good, and why some should be avoided. Much attention is also given to various dietary requirements, and this is a good way to help children understand what others are eating. The importance of breakfast is shown! A practical and entertaining read.

Your Body: A Guide to Healthy Living (Talking It Through) by Althea 

Another practical book in this series for young readers. As with all the books in this series, it is easy reading for children and offers valuable insights for adults, in the way they are helped to understand how children perceive things. The body is an amazing thing, and this book takes children on an exciting journey through the body and explains clearly the marvellous things that take place. A key feature of the book is how to take care of our bodies and this is presented in a way that will appeal to children. 

The Snail and the Whale: Read and Respond by Jean Evans

Scholastic produce this series of books which are designed to help teachers get the most out of popular children's fiction. Sometimes, you just know that a book is a brilliant teaching resource but can't quite decide how best to use it. That's where this series comes in - I loved them when doing library lessons with KS1 and KS2 children. This book is based on Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler's well-loved book and is full of inspirational ideas for KS1. Guided reading, shared reading and then ideas based on plot, character and setting. Plenty of other activities too - book review, understanding pictures, writing - which will make for very interesting lessons. All photocopiable too. 

How To Do Maths So Your Children Can Too by Naomi Sani

Do you feel confused or worried when your child comes home and asks for help with maths homework? Have you forgotten what you learnt or are worried about teaching your child different methods from those used in school? If so, this is the book to help you. It will develop your own confidence in your maths skills and you will be able to pass this reassurance on to your child. Ideal for supporting your child through primary school, the book is packed with practical examples which you will be enabled to tackle using the clear direction given. Topics which sem new to parents, such as number bonds and chunking are clearly and succintly explained - there is just enough information to allow you to give your child the best help possible and it is written in an informal and highly readable style. Recommended!

Is Your Child Safe Online? by Pamela Whitby

This is such an important topic and one that is of concern to many parents, so it's good to see such a well-written book exploring the subject. It covers cyber bullying, social networks, indecent content and grooming. - a fast-moving world of which all parents and teachers need to be aware. Find out what really happens, learn general safety guidelines (and very importantly, how to communicate with your child on this tricky topic), discover what children really do online (you may be surprised!). We need to protect our children so this book should be essential reading for parents and teachers alike. Dangers are put into perspective and adults will be empowered by knowing what is out there. Case studies, tips and thoughts from youngsters combine to make this a well-rounded book.

Save our Sleep by Tizzie Hall

'Helping your baby to sleep through the night from birth to two years'. I can see sleep-deprived parents pouncing in this title with huge enthusiasm. Tizzie Hall is a renowned sleep expert and her years of experience shine through. As with all books of this type, parents need to read and select what works for them - but with such wide-ranging advice, there will be some tips to help everyone. The routines suggested are quite strict, but there are suggestions for each age and useful advice on weaning. Interestingly, special attention is given to premature babies, multiples and where there is a baby and a toddler. The real life case studies are useful evidence to show the results in real life.

Nanny In A Book by Louise Heren and Susan McMillan

Written in association with Norland College, this is bound to be an authoratitive work. Key topics are covered:  setting up your nursery, sleeping, weaning and potty training, teaching your child good manners and behaviour, nursing common ailments from sore tummies to measles, organising a birthday party. The approach, as one would expect, is traditional but htese are tried and tested methods which are still as relevant as ever - although, of course, advice had been brought up-to-date as required. It is a very reassuring book and would make an excellent gift for an expectant mother. Top tips and perssonal experiences make this an easy and interesting read.                               

Glorious Grandparenting by Gloria Hunniford

Written from a personal viewpoint by someone who obviously gets the maximum benefit of of being a grandmother. For all new grandparents, there is so much to learn - everything has changed since we had our own children so this is an excellent read to help gain a pwerspective on parenting today and how grandparents can help without interfering. Grandparents have so much to offer and this book really shows the joy of being a grandmother. As well as the practical issues, for example having the grandchildren to stay or going on holiday with them, there is help on the dilemmas many face, such as separation from grandchildren and being taken for granted. A joyful celebration which would make the perfect gift for a new grandmother. 

Weaning Made Easy by Rana Conway

This book is full of options for new parents to consider and then adopt what suits them and their baby best. The traditional ways of weaning are explored in detail and the book goes on to discuss the concept of baby-led weaning. The practical advice from other mothers will appeal to new mums, who want the reassurance of using tried and tested methods. Much of what is in the book is commonsense, but a new baby offers parents all sorts of concerns, many of which are answered in this book. Man y books favour one option or the other, so here is the opportunity for both schools of thought to be considered in one unbiased place. Tips and fact boxes break up what can be quite heavy going, and these are very accessible and helpful.

The Fear of Maths: How to Overcome It Sum Hope³ By Steve Chinn 

Don't Pick On Me: How To Handle Bullying by Rosemary Stones

There are many types of bullying, and many types of bully. This practical guide will help parents and children recognise bullying for what it is, and give them strategies for coping. The statistics around bullying are frightening, so anything which can help children, parents and teachers to address the issue is valuable. There are four parts - What is bullying?; Sticking up for yourself; Helping yourself feel good; Protecting yourself. The advice is clear, practical and based on real-life experience. The current big issue of cyber-bullying is discussed. A reassuring book, which shows young people how to cope and makes them understand they are not alone.

500 Baby and Toddler Foods by Beverley Glock

I was instantly attracted to this book by its chunky feel, attractive layout and appetising pictures. The book starts off very practically, with advice on weaning and an interesting section on foods to avoid, followed by advice on equipment and food safety. The recipes themselves are split into four age-appropriate sections. Each selection has a wide selection of recipes, all accompanied by photos of the completed dish. The recipes are clear and easy to follow and appetising for the whole family. At the end of each section there is an extensive list of variations on the basic recipe. This is an excellent book to be used for all the family, with a wide variety of straightforward recipes which will appeal to all tastes and encourage eating as a family. 

Top 100 Pasta Dishes by Annabel Karmel

Another practical recipe book from the family eating expert. This time, Annabel turns her attention to meals based on pasta which is both easy to prepare and a healthy option. The first recipes are suitable for 7 months on and recipes for toddlers follow. Some of the toddler recipes can be adapted for the family, and after that section the book goes on to poultry, meat, fish and vegetarian recipes, all perfect for the whole family to sit down and enjoy together. Preparation and cooking times are given, along with number of servings and suitability for freezing. The ingredients are easily come by and the instructions straightforward. I like the fact every recipe is illustrated, so you know what the finished result should be! A really attrractive and practical book which every family will find helpful. 

Top 100 Meals in Minutes by Annabel Karmel

Perfect for busy parents, this collection of brand-new recipes ensures you are secure in the knowledge that your little ones are eating healthy, well-balanced home prepared food. It starts with simple purees and finger foods, then moves on to introducing new flavours and textures. The book then gives practical recipes which can be enjoyed by the whole family, including some sweet treats. After the simple purees, some of the recipes are quite complex, but they are clearly explained so inexperienced cooks can develop confidence. Clearly laid out, with mouth-watering pictures, this is a practical guide to use from weaning onwards. I shared the book with the mother of a 6 month old, who was most impresed with the appetising pictures and the fact that the recipes can be used for the whole family and are really tasty, not bland baby food.

Brain Games for Your Child by Robert Fisher

We are often asked how parents can help their children develop thinking skills. This is the ideal book to develop all sorts of skills that will stimulate children and extend their brain power. It's never too early to start - this book  has four sections, covering ages 0 - 3, 3 - 6, 6 - 9 and 9+. There is also a valuable section on travel games - the time you and your children spend travelling together is one of the best opportunities to learn and have fun together. The games - some familiar and some completely new - are clearly explained and most need a minimum of resources making them easy to do at any time. Keep this book by you for those family times together. A well thought-out book that will engage the whole family.

 A Parent's Survival Guide to Phonics and Spelling by Andrew Brodie

This is an excellent guide for all parents who would like to understand more about phonics and the way reading is taught in schools, written by a well-established author of educational books. Parents are anxious to help their children, but many do not understand the terms used and how to apply phonics teaching at home. This book can help, as it shows parents what children will learn in Reception, Year 1 and Year 2, enabling them to support their children in a progressive manner. The Letters and Sounds programme is clearly described without too much detail - just enough to help. At the end of the book is an extremely useful selection of word lists for spelling practice. An really practical book, clearly laid out and covering all the key concepts, which I recommend to all parents.

The Starting School Survival Guide by Sarah Ebner

Sarah Ebner is editor of The Times' education blog School Gate so is in an excellent position to know about all the issues that concern parents. The world of primary school is a complex one and many parents are bewildered by the changes that have taken place since they were there. This book is full of reassuring and practical advice, from choosing a school, preparing for school, friendship groups (adult and child!), to what is actually taught (including phonics and numeracy - areas which frequently confuse parents) , time off and food. It is packed with information but the layout, with plenty of quotes in italics, makes it easy to read. The quotes from parents who have actually experienced the issues are enlightening and reassuring - it's always good to hear experiences of others. Whether you read it cover to cover or just dip into it as required, this is an excellent read for all parents.

What Every Parent Should Know Before Their Child Goes To Secondary School by Jane Bidder

The change from the sheltered world of the primary school into the big world of secondary is a huge one - for parents as well as children. This practical book, written by an author who has collected advice from all around the world of education, helps parents choose schools, gives advice on helping children settle, discusses (among many other subjects) homework, friendships, bullying, what is taught, Parents' Evenings and much more. The biggest challenge for many parents is the lack of contact with other parents and the teachers, so this book is an excellent way to garner the information previously obtained in person. Personal experiences are reassuring and the book is very readable.

What To Do When Your Child Hates School by Antonia Chitty 

Subtitled 'How to see your child off to school with a smile again', this book reassures parents that there is light at the end of the tunnel. Parents need to find out what the problem is - not wanting to go to school is likely to be triggered by a particular circumstance. Once that is identified - and the book is helpful in doing that -  it gives strategies to cope and much practical advice on talking to your child. There is practical advice on working it out with the school, but if that does not work, the book discusses alternatives - moving school, special types of school and home education.

Grandparents by Miriam Stoppard 

Grandparents play an important part in the lives of children today, with many taking their share of childcare. Who better to advise and guide them than Dr Miriam Stoppard, whose books they probably relied on when bringing up their own children? The subtitle is 'Enjoying and caring for your grandchild' and with the help of the practical advice in this book, grandparents can be reassured that they are aware of current ideas and options when caring for children. The importance of respecting the views of the parents is emphasised - this is always a tricky one but the sage advice in this book will help overcome many potential problems and explain the ways in which childcare has changed. All key aspects of childhood are covered right from babyhood to older children. A really readable, enjoyable, practical and well-presented book, crammed with useful and reassuring information. Enjoy your grandchildren!

Bullying - a Parent's Guide by Jennifer Thomson

This is an updated version of this practical guide. It tackles the modern-day threat of cyber-bullying in an informed manner and really helps parents to understand what really happens. It is a topic most  of us have heard about, but many do not appreciate the full horror, so this aspect of this new edition will be very useful.  Parents feel helpless when they think their child may be being bullied and this guide is full of useful and practical advice. It discusses the various forms bullying can take, including mobile phone bullying, and suggests things parents should look out for if they suspect bullying. I particularly liked the approach taken in the chapter on how to approach the school - always a tricky situation. The book then continues with a chapter on where to go after that. The chapter on 'Inside the mind of a bullied child' is very perceptive and valuable. Practical scenarios are excellent and this book will be useful to teachers as well as parents.

What To Feed When by Annabel Karmel

New mums have so many questions and so many concerns about feeding their baby that they will welcome a new book from such a respected expert in the field as Annabel Karmel. This is such an attractive book that it is a pleasure to read, with its pastel backgrounds to every page and clear Q and A layout - over 300 questions are answered. Five sections - 0-6, 6-9, 9-12, 12-18 and 18-36 months cover the key stages in feeding little ones. The advice is practical, easy to follow and shows a real awareness of mums' concerns. Reasons are given for the guidelines and these make practical sense and give parents a good basis for making their own decisions. There are recipes for each age group which ensure important food groups are part of the child's diet. An excellent book.

Baby's First Year: A Parent's Guide by Shanta Everington

A practical and succinct guide to all the wonderful changes that take place in the first twelve months of life. Parents are faced with conflicting advice from all sides - this book sets out to give the vital information that parents need to make those all-important decisions. It covers The first few weeks; feeding; crying; sleep; cleaning; how your baby develops; teething; play; weaning and how mum should look after herself - an often-overlooked topic! Case studies and practical tips from other parents are reassuring and practical.

Read Me A Story by Alison Davies

The subtitle of this book is just what I hope every parent will do with their children - 'Help your child fall in love with books'. Picture books have so much to offer children and this book explains how parents can use specific books to the greatest benefit. Children love to hear their favourites read over and over again and - dare I say it? - parents can long for a change. This is your chance to make the re-reading full of interest for you both. The books featured are carefully selected to give opportunities to develop numeracy and literacy skills, providing a really useful signpost for parents who are bewildered by the huge range of books out there. Modern and classic picture books are used. The book then covers choosing and using picture books with lots of practical advice on using everyday objects and situations to extend learning. The final section is 'Stories for Everyday Routines'. Full of inspiring photos and very easy to read, I would strongly recommend this to all parents and to teachers too.

School Blues by Daniel Pennac

An interesting exploration of teaching and especially of the effect one inspirational teacher can have on a pupil's life. Daniel Pennac was stigmatised as an unsatisfactory student until one inspired idea lifted him and set him on the path to teacher and novelist. A thought provoking book which should be read by all responsible for the education of our children, to show what can be done and what should be done. How many children have suffered missed opportunities? As swell as conveying an important message about education and the different ways in which learning takes place, it is also a very readable book.

What Your Year 1 Child Needs to Know by E D Hirsch & John Holdren

So often at Parents in Touch we are asked 'What should my child know in Year...?' This book helps to answer the question for parents of children in Year 1. Adapted from the US model to suit the UK, it covers the basics children will need to start them on the journey of learning. It should not be viewed as the be-all and end-all of what children need to learn but is a starting point. It is an ideal book for those undertaking home schooling, so they can ensure an awareness of many of the key areas covered in Year 1. The book covers Language & Literature (with lots of stories and poems), History & Geography,  Visual Arts, Music, Maths and Science - it's good to see all areas of the curriculum covered. It is written in clear accessible language, making parents aware of the correct level of work to expect from their children. There are lots of discussion points and activities, again geared at the right level for the year. This is an excellent book, copiously illustrated throughout,  for parents who want to support their children at home, as well as those who are home educating.

Homework Help for Mums and Dads by Karen Dolby 

Subtitled 'Help Your Child Succeed', this book sets out to help parents to know the best ways to help their children with homework - without doing it for them! So many parents want to help with homework but are unsure about the teaching methods used in school. This excellent guide is aimed at parents of children from 7 up and covers numeracy, literacy and science in depth, and also helps with history, geography and ICT, all in a way tyhat makes learning fun. Maths is an area of particular concern to parents as so much has changed since they were at school. The key topics are covered with clear, succinct explanations and plenty of diagrams. Literacy and science are covered in equal depth. In all topics, there are clear definitions given of the vocabulary, and there are useful tips from parents and teachers.This is a reassuring and practical read for parents - well worth getting a copy.

Sand and Water Play: a Space to Learn -  by Anne Pratt 

This is a great resource for use in Early Years, whether in reception class, nursery or for childminders - all of whom will find inspiration here. Parents too, will find it full of inspirational ideas - there is opportunity for water play in our homes, and many of us have sandpits in the garden or local park. The opening of the book acknowledges that often sand and water play are assigned to a dark corner of the room, as having little real value - its purpose is to overcome that and it succeeds brilliantly. Plenty of practical ideas - what to use, planning and rules for safety - are followed by a series of well thought activities, all mapped to the Early Learning Goals. Clearly laid out, with a list of resources, activities and books (really helpful mentions of books to support the topic) to complement the activity, everything is here to plan a successful kesson. Here are some of the ideas to give an indication of the wide range of the ideas - bathing the baby; creating ponds; cold seas and lands; an undersae garden and going to the circus.  A practical yet inspiring guide that merits a place in all Early Years settings.

The Little Book of Making Books and Cards by Sally Featherstone

This series is a fantastic resource for Early Years teachers, and for parents (especially home schoolers) wanting some inspiration for use at home. You can see more about the series here  http://www.parentsintouch.co.uk/Foundation-Stage-for-teachers.
Communication is essential in all aspects of life, so introducing young children to various means of communication is key to learning. This brightly coloured book introduces making books, wrting letters and sending messages. Children love to produce cards - and parents and other relatives and friends love to receive them - and there are lots of original ideas to make this fun. There are suggestions on making books to appeal to all sorts of audiences and there are some really creative ideas. Cartoon-style illustrations feature throughout. What you need; What to do; and other ideas are included for every topic which makes these books really practical to use. No going into the classroom and finding something vital missing!

The Little Topic Book of Bears by Judith Harries

I love the cover of this book - such a serious little face!  Bears - toy and real - are a very popular theme in Early Years and they can be used to cover all the Areas of Learning. This inspirational book is packed with ideas - a few of the more unusual ones include Bearobics, a bear totem pole and keeping teddy dry. There is a collection of stories about bears, templates to cut out and an interesting list of ICT resoiurces. The range of ideas in this little book is phenomenal - there is everything here a teacher needs to cover the subject. Fully illustrated throughouyt with colour photos, the ideas are easy to follow and full of extension activities. Lots of ideas that parents could use with their own children too.

The Little Book of Explorations by Sally Featherstone 

Small children just love to explore and this book gives ideas for indoors and outdoors and in the wider community. Children need to understand their place in the world and this is full of ways to help them do that. Activities are linked to the EYFS goals and there are plenty of follow-up activities to reinforce learning and provide extra interest. To name just a few, the book includes minibeasts, woods and shopping. Like the others in the series, this book includes extensive lists of books to support the theme and these would be a great guide when setting up a classroom or setting library. I love to see books used to support learning in this way.

Fatherhood - the Essential Guide by Tim Atkinson

Fathers are often overlooked - there are plenty of books for mothers, so it is great to see one directed at fathers. In common with the others in the series published by Need2Know Books, this is written by an expert - Tim is a father of three and an established parenting blogger and his passion for helping other dads enjoy their children's early years shines through in this book. This book really does start at the beginning, from pregnancy and labour, ensuring that fathers really understand what is going on during a phase when they can feel sidelined. It covers how to help the mother and understand what is happening during and immediately after birth, onto with bonding with your child, and goes up to three year olds. Practical and easy to read, this is ideal both to dip into when particular issues arise or to read through in preparation for fatherhood.Mums will find it interesting too, as it will help them see things from the father's perspective. 

A Parent's Survival Guide to Starting Secondary School by Molly Potter

Moving on to secondary school is a huge step and many parents are concerned about how their children will get on. It is very different from primary school, when many of us were there every day to collect the children and therefore felt in touch with the school, so a book which explains clearly what to expect is invaluable. It covers how to choose the right school for your child; preparing for the transition; what happens at the start and settling in; and what happens later on. Written by an experienced teacher, this is packed with practical information for parents and children and is ideal for sharing with your child to reassure him. There is a phenomenal amount of information packed in, in an easy to read format. I especially like the inclusion of many quix pages for the student to complete, asking views on topics including homework and bullying, giving the chance to raise and discuss issues. An excellent book which I recommend to all preparing for the move to secondary school.

Where Has My Little Girl Gone? by Tanith Carey

It is great to see a book on this topical subject. There is a great deal in the media about the fact that children, especially girls, are growing up so quickly, and there is huge pressure placed on our young people. This is an issue that concerns many parents, who will find this new book very interesting reading.  Girls are bombarded from all sides with information and materials to make them grow up too soon, and they don't have the maturity to reject this or to see what is wrong. This practical book covers how to help keep these messages away from young girls and, and more importantly, how to raise their self-esteem so they have the confidence to stand out against these things. The experiences of other parents form a really valuable part of the book, as we all like to hear how others have coped. An excellent book to have beside you as your daughter grows up.

 Asperger's Syndrome - the Essential Guide by Hilary Hawkes

Living with a sufferer, or having Asperger's Syndrome is challenging and worrying - not least because of the lack of understanding which surrounds it. This down-to-earth factual guide is written by Hilary Hawkes, who has first-hand experience of AS. This is not a quick fix, but takes the reader through living with AS from diagnosis, through how to handle it, to careers and long-term relationships. I found it an enlightening book, covering key issues in a succinct fashion and I recommend it to anyone who encounters AS in any way, especially parents and teachers, to increase understanding and give an insight into how sufferers feel. An extensive list of resources is a useful feature.

Travelling with Children - a Parent's Guide by Catherine Cooper

Holidays area  keenly anticipated part of life, but sometimes the planning can seem very daunting, especially with children to take into account. This book aims to guide parents in selecting the most appropriate sort of holiday for their family. It covers all ages and types of holiday - from cruises to camping - and I felt it may well give parents confidence to tackle a type of holiday they had previously felt to be out of the question. Plenty of practical experiences from parents will be appreciated  and the section on travelling with babies and toddlers is very practical. I did wonder if the book might be better titled Holidaying with Children!

Children's Nutrition - a Parent's Guide by Angela Falaschi & Andrea Childs

The Need2Know Guides are exceptional resources for parents. The books are written by experts in their field, and contain plenty of practical advice written in a friendly and approachable fashion whilst remaining totally professional in outlook. We are all familiar with the topic of childhood nutrition but much of what we read is sensationalised. We need a sensible, down-to-earth approach and this book is exactly that. It starts with a breakdown of the food children need, and then discusses the requirements of 4 different age groups. Recipes for babies are followed by ideas for breakfasts, lunches and family dinners. All the recipes are straightforward, nutritious and based on easily obtained ingredients. help your child have a healthy start to life with this practical guide.

Drugs - a Parent's Guide by Judy Mackie

Parents need to approach the issue of drugs from an informed position. This book is a valuable guide for all parents. Ensure you know what to look out for and how to help. Find out what attracts young people to drugs; read the useful A to Z of the various drugs; and develop a trusting and sharing relationship with young people so the door is always open for discussion - this book will help you with all these aspects. Practical advice and case studies will be relevant to young people reading the book as well as to parents, so I would encourage you and your family to share it and talk about the issues - this book is an ideal start.

 The Terrible Twos - a Parent's Guide by Shanta Everington

'The Terrible Twos' - most parents will agree this can be a difficult time in a child's life, as the child grows, explores and tests the limits. But it needn't be terrible, if handled constructively, as this practical guide shows. Shanta is an experienced Early Years Practitioner and her experience shines through in this book. We are given an insight into children's emotions and needs, and this helps us understand the behaviour that may arise as a consequence. The importance of setting boundaries, whilst leaving room to develop and explore is discussed. Play, eating, sleep and potty training are all areas of possible contention and strategies are given, along with real life experiences. A practical and reassuring guide which will be invaluable to parents and to all those who come into contact with 2 year olds.

Special Educational Needs - a Parent's Guide by Antonia Chitty and Victoria Dawson 

Many parents are concerned that their child may have special educational needs and this reassuring book is an excellent starting point to find out more. Many children need some extra help with their education (and this includes high-achievers too) but they don't necessarily have special educational needs. This book outlines many of the common additional needs and shows parents and carers how they themselves can help and also how best to get help from outside agencies (including a comprehensive list). Interestingly, it covers the practical issues that can come from caring for children with additional needs, such as finance and sleep deprivation.This will be valuable to all parents, not just those whose children have some form of additional needs, as it will help develop understanding.There are many more excellent guides at Need2Know Books

 Child Obesity - a Parent's Guide by Judith Manson

A touchy subject is handled with sensitivity in this practical book by Judith Manson, who is a medical journalist with a special interest in children's health; she is also the mother of 3 children so understands the issues parents face. We read a lot in the media about overweight children - why is this happening and what can we do about it? I found the chapter on the causes of obesity interesting - we are inclined to pre-judge but there can be many reasons for being overweight. The book is full of practical ideas, conveyed with empathy and a real understanding of how parents feel; it will be equally valuable to practioners, both for the professional advice and to help them see things from the parents' perspective. All the advice is applicable to everyone, not just the overweight, so this will be an excellent purchase for all families.

Autism - a Parent's Guide by Hilary Hawkes

The Need2Know Guides are an excellent practical series, each written by an expert in the field. Hilary wrote this book to help parents find support when they first receive the diagnosis of autism and she has based it on personal experience. Parents will have so many questions, so this an excellent starting point. It discusses the symptoms of autism and getting a diagnosis; moving on to living with a child with autism and how to help. Practical advice is given on selecting the best education and how to deal with adolescence. Extensive lists and advice on where to get help are a really useful feature. This is a reassuring and down-to-earth read which will be invaluable to parents and also to practitioners new to the subject - perhaps teachers with an affected child in their class.

Dyslexia and Other Learning Difficulties - a Parent's Guide by Maria Chivers

Maria is the founder of the Swindon Dyslexia Centre and is well-used to helping parents of children with learning difficulties. This is a sympathetically written book, demonstrating a real understanding of how parents feel when their child isn't learning quite like other children. Parents are the first to know when something is not right with their child, but persuading others to see this and treat it sensitively can be an uphill task. This book is ful of strategies to help and advice on approaching the professionals, all written in a clear, sensitive and understandable manner. Dyslexia, dyscalculia, dyspraxia, SEN, gifted children and ADHD are all covered, with useful checklists for initial guidance. Full ovf practical advice, this is an excellent first port of call.

ADHD - The Essential Guide by Diane Paul

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) can manifest itself in behaviour patterns that may just be normal childhood behaviour, or may be symptomatic of an underlying issue.This book helps parents to know the difference, obtain a diagnosis and find treatment and support. medication is discussed in a factual manner, leaving parents to make their own informed decisions. The parctical information given in the book is excellent for helping parents approach professionals without in any way taking over their role. The practical support available is outlined and the book concludes with an extensive list of resources

The Parent's Guide to Eating Disorders by Jane Smith 

An emotive subject is tackled in a practical and accessible way in this down-to-earth guide. Eating disorders are becoming increasing common and cause heartbreak for families who are affected. This book is written for parents by parents, meaning that the suggestions are based on real-life experiences. The first chapters focus on suspecting and then discovering an eating disorder. It then goes on with help on getting a diagnosis and how to manage the situation. Full of practical experiences and quotations, and addressing issues facing boys and fathers as well as girls and mothers, this book really 'talks' to parents. Jane is Director of Anorexia Bulimia Care and her vast experience and compassion shines out through this book. An excellent guide to a tricky subject.

Stories Can Be Counted On! by Neil Griffiths

This book is subtitled 'Ideas for developing mathematics through story'  and it is full of inspirational ideas to help parents and teachers use stories to help develop an understanding of number. The book explores ways to use stories to support the maths Early Learning Goals and early stages of the National Curriculum. It also supports all other areas of the Early Years curriculum. Topics are supported by learning activities, role play ideas, preparation, extension activities covered, goals  and, of course, extensive lists of suitable books to address each topic. To take one example - 'Count on Stories' includes role play and mime, cards to enhance learning, mathematical vocabulary and book lists. The back of the book contains a wonderful collection of finger puppet templates to copy, which really help to bring teaching to life - these are a great resource. There is so much in this book, it is hard to do it justice in a short review - I strongly recommend you get hold of a copy and help the children in your care really enjoy their mathematical learning and establish a strong base for the future, as well as seeing maths as fun.

My Child is Autistic by Renitha Tutin 

To Miss with Love by Katharine Birbalsingh

This is a riveting account of a year in the life of a teacher in an inner-city school. It opens with a meeting with past pupils - who have turned out surprisingly well. Snuffy's class this year is a 'challenging' group and we learn her strategies for handling them. We meet a fascinating range of pupils, each bringing their own problems and challenges for Snuffy to handle. The reader is drawn into her world and shares her emotions through the year. This book gives a real insight into the troubled world of some of today's schools and yet it is inspirational and positive. For parents, it gives an insight into how some schools are today; for teachers, it shows one way of handling challenging pupils.

The Outdoor Classroom by Hilary Harriman

Making good use of outside space is a key issue in education at the moment. This book will inspire those who have not yet used the outdoors and give fresh ideas to those already using their outside space. It shows how each of the Six Areas of Learning can be taught outdoors (with many of the ideas transferable inside). To take just one example of the huge range of activities, Mathematical development includes picnics, patterns, building, washing day, market day, gardening and more... Full of practical lesson ideas and lists of useful resources, there is a wealth of information here, including lesson plans and case studies. Children need to discover, explore and investigate the world around them and the ideas here encourage that. Illustrated throughout by colour photos, showing the ideas in action, this book deserves a place in every staffroom.

Are You Sitting Comfortably? Then I'll Begin by Neil Griffiths

Reading together and sharing books is a vital part of childhood, but sadly, one which seems to be dying out with the advent of so many other distractions. Neil Griffiths is passionate about story-telling, so let him share with you his techniques for making storytime a valued part of every day. he gives advice on choosing stories; the art of storytelling; talking about what you have read; how to involve children; and storytime at school and at home. We are not all blessed with the art of being natural storytellers and I, for one, found  invaluable the tips on what makes a good storyteller, not least for their simplicity - using the book as a prop and the importance of facial expressions, for example. This would be a brilliant addition to a staffroom library whilst being equally useful for parents wanting to extend their storytelling skills. Find out more about Neil and StorySacks at www.cornertolearn.co.uk

Hold on Tight by Claire Carpenter

Surely this is a picture book,  you might be thinking. Yes, it is and a really enjoyable story to read aloud and share with your child. It tells the story of Tommy, who is determined to go to the moon and is not deterred by the dismissal of his idea by those around him. Tommy WILL get there and a friendly dragon helps him on his way. But this is far more than just a picture book - it is one in a series of self-development books for children - the 'Yes You Can' books. They are designed 'to encourage self esteem, a positive outlook, an open mind and a courageous heart' - all attributes Tommy has in abundance. The book concludes with some thoughtful questions for adults and children to discuss. This book is a useful resource for parents and teachers and would make an excellent assembly story. More ideas and resources on Claire's site at www.yesyoucanbooks.com.

 Primary School - a Parent's Guide by Kim Thomas

Many parents are confused by all the changes that take place in schooling so this succinct guide will be very welcome. It covers all the key topics  - how to choose a school; the admissions process; how to prepare your child to start school; the curriculum and SATS, among other things. The admissions process can be a minefield so it is good to see this clarified. The advice on choosing a school is excellent, particularly the questions to ask. The curriculum is complex to understand, as are the requirements of SATS and both these areas are clearly and succinctly covered. You can find out how much time your child will spend on key subjects and what they are expected to know. There is also a list of useful contacts. A very practical guide for all parents.

 Secondary School - A Parent's Guide

This would be an ideal book to read when your child is in Year 6 (or even 5) of primary school, so you can weigh up the options and have plenty of time to decide on the best school for your child. It tells you what to look out for when choosing and gives advice to use when visiting schools. This is very reassuring to parents. The chapter on Special Needs explains how children can be included in mainstream education and how to help them. An interesting chapter is that on Friendships - an important topic that can be overlooked. Find out how to support your teenager through the various exams, and learn about the options available. Many parents are anxious about communicating with schools, but the good advice in this book is really practical and easy to read.

How to Pass exams - A Parent's Guide by David Lambourne

David Lambourne is an experienced teacher with many years experience of prepring pupils for exams, so you know you can rely on the advice in this book. It is aimed at secondary school pupils and emphasises the importance of parental help and support. Topics covered include motivation, effective study, health, note-taking, essay writing, coursework, revision techniques and that all important day - the exam itself. Full of practical and easy to apply ideas, I recommend this book for sharing with your teenager for reassurance and support, and to give you confidence that you are doing youyr best to help.
This is one in the Need-2-Know series - a very practical series, that gives just the right amount of information to cover the most common questions. 

Learn with Red Hen and her Phonic Friends by Gill Davies

This innovative book is a great way to introduce children to phonic sounds. Phonics are an essential part of learning to read and this book makes learning really fun. It contains the Reception High Frequency Words and key words for Years 1 and 2, making it an excellent tool for parents to use with their children, knowing they are reinforcing the work done in school. To begin, read the amusing stories, then experiment with the letter sounds using the wheels to create lots of different words. Plenty to catch the attention as there are small pictures as well as words in the wheels. Common blends are covered with opportunities to practise the sounds. An excellent and fun introduction to what can be a somewhat daunting topic. 

Child by Desmond Morris

This book is a follow-up to the very successful Baby and again demonstrates Morris' unique approach to human relationships and development. It explores the world of young children aged from 2 to 5 as they emerge from toddlerdom and start out on the long road to independence. This is a fascinating stage in any child's life, as they continue to move towards being independent people, so a book which helps us to understand what is happening is an excellent aid. The unusul thing about this book, which sets it apart from the majority of books about the early years, is that it is written from the child's perspective thus giving us a real insight into how children feel. All aspects of children's lives are covered, making this a good reference book for issues that crop up, for instance friendships and emotional development, as well as a fascinating read from beginning to end. The understanding thus gained helps us to understand reactions and therefore how best to deal with them. Pull out sections illustrate the milestones at each age and make a useful quick reference guide. The photographs are wonderful and convey all sorts of emotions. A great guide for all parents.

Making sense of your Child's Friendships by Elizabeth Hartley-Brewer 

Friendship is enormously important to all of us but children's friendships can be very up and down affairs. This book is designed to help parents of children up to 12 years old and starts with an interesting analysis of how friendships change up to that age, so helping parents know what to expect. It helps parents have an insight into how children think about friends, which can be a great help in knowing how to handle problems and uncertainties. The differences between girls' and boys' friendships are explored andagain this is a useful insight and helps us understand the differences between our children. Parents have so many worries about their children's friendship, that they will find this a reassuring read with sensible advice about when to intervene and when to stand back.

How to talk so kids will listen and how to listen so kids will talk by Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish 

We all have times when we think our children just aren't listening to us - but perhaps we aren't talking to them in the right way. This book is packed full of advice on how to handle lots of common situations that occur in the home. There are practical exercises to do which are an excellent way of stopping and thinking about how our words come across. The book includes ways to help with negative feelings, how to express feelings and gain your child's cooperation and how to resolve conflicts. The use of cartoon illustrations breaks up the text and increases the readability of this book. The authors suggest reading a chapter at a time and applying what is learnt before going on, which is excellent advice.

Engaging NLP for Teachers by Judy Bartkowiak

Judy Bartkowiak is passionate about NLP and this comes across clearly in this volume. She explains her thoughts on how teachers can use NLP (Neuro Linguistic Programming) to help the children they teach.  Like the others in this series, the book encourages the reader to write down their thoughts in the book, meaning  they are always there to refer to and assess progress. This is a practical guide which suggests new ideas to teachers.

Engaging NLP for Children by Judy Bartkowiak

This book is written for parents to use with children aged between 5 and 11. Through this book, Judy Bartkowiak shows how using NLP will teach children about; Self Esteem; Setting goals; Controlling their mood; Managing criticism; Coping with change; Coping with grief; Making friends (rapport) Learning styles (VAK). These principles will help some people in understanding their children and their emotions.

Engaging NLP Back to Work by Judy Bartkowiak

Judy Bartkowiak has combined working in a wide variety of jobs with bringing up four children and believes that the most important attributes mums need are; self belief; outcome thinking; flexibility; positivity; the ability to prioritise. These skills are covered in this book along with plenty of different ideas of paid work that you can combine with having a family and having the time to enjoy them.  The book includes practical ideas and ctivities to undertake.

Stop bedwetting in 7 days by Alicia Eaton

Bedwetting is an emotive subject and one which concerns many parents and children. There are many strategies people can use to tackle the issue. This book uses positive psychology, NLP and hypnotherapy to help children overcome bedwetting in  few days. The book starts off by reassuring parents that bedwetting is a common problem albeit one which people are reluctant to discuss. It gives practical strategies and makes suggestions of ways in which to increase children's self confidence.

Succeed in Sport by Jackie Wilkinson

There is pressure on children to achieve in many areas of life. Many children enjoy sport and it is an important part of children's wellbeing to ensure that they do get regular physical exercise. The author is five times British Field Archery Champion and in this book, she aims to share with others the techniques which enabled her to reach the top. The introduction tells us that this book is for those who want to be the best they can....for those who want to win. Jackie Wilkinson uses the book to show how the use of effective charts to record progress can improve achievement and how to use the charts to monitor progress.

Seeing Spells Achieving by Olive Hickmott & Andrew Bendefy

"Have you ever wished you could improve your reading, writing, spelling, maths, and your memory and learning skills? Well, try this. - Seeing Spells Achieving - takes you through a series of simple logical steps which build on each other to enable you or your children to visualise your way to success, developing skills you already possess." Thus is this book desrcibed on the back cover and it is certain to have appeal to those who struggle with these aspects of learning. The book explains in a very simple, easy way, how to learn to spell by visualising words, through a series of steps which build together. It contains plenty of strategies which are easy to try and can benefit all ages.

 Engaging NLP for Parents by Judy Bartkowliak

NLP is Neuro Linguistic Programming. The author is an NLP Master Practitioner who has specialised training in working with children. This book is an excellent introduction to the topic, written in easily accessible language and giving all the basic information needed to apply the principles.  I like the way the book encourages you to write down your goals at the beginning, thus giving positive aims and a way to measure success. It is a very positive book which will give parents the confidence they need to apply the ground rules outlined. These ground rules underpin all the techniques learnt in the book and are explained clearly and concisely. An excellent introduction to NLP.

A Parent's Survival Guide to maths homework by Andrew Brodie

I wish this book had been available when I was struggling to help my children with their maths homework! It covers every topic your child will encounter through primary school. Maths teaching has changed so much since most of us were at school that this clear and succinct guide will be a great help to parents anxious to help their children without confusing them. Find out when your child should learn tables; how the rules of number are taught and unravel the mysteries of topics such as chunking,. The work covered in the National Curriculum for each year is covered so you know exactly what your child will do when. This is an excellent book which deserves a place in every home with primary age children and is an excellent book for home schoolers.

 Toe by Toe by Keda Cowling

Stareway to spelling by Keda Cowling

I have used this and think it is excellent. I started with the sentence dictation passage for the 1 to 50 Most used words. Then using the SUS words found it gave pupils the ability to look at the form of the word and recognise it more easily. This was an incentive to read quickly and fluently to make progress to the next 51 to 100 words. The structure of the scheme encourages the children to work carefully and to take more care with spellings so that they can see progress. I found that the children were reading the lists with increased assurance and were happy to increase their vocabulary.

Stride Ahead by Keda Cowling