First Start Program
FIRST START PROGRAM — Second Edition
Handbook for the Care of Infants, Toddlers, and Young Children with Disabilities and Chronic Conditions
Handbook for the Care of Infants, Toddlers, and Young Children with Disabilities and Chronic Conditions is the result of work by Project FIRST START at the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center School of Nursing. It was developed to train childcare providers and preschool personnel to appropriately handle special needs children within their settings.
The second edition of this practical resource is presented in outline form, making it easy to read and refer to. The handbook has four sections: Human Development, Chronic Conditions, Care Needs, and Communication and Community Support.
Each chapter in the Chronic Conditions section provides an overview of a specific condition such as autism, cerebral palsy, or Down syndrome. The chapter details the characteristics of the condition and gives specific guidance to the caregiver about how to handle the child with this condition.
The Care Needs section offers practical “how to” information on a variety of topics. You’ll have tips and suggestions for areas such as Behavior Support for Young Children, Infection Control and Handwashing, and Environmental Safety.
The section on Communication and Community Support provides helpful information such as an explanatory chapter on inclusion. It also has important information on current legal issues and up-to-date information on respecting diversity.
References and Further Reading segments are found at the end of each chapter as well as a Resources section that includes many helpful web sites and organizations, vendor lists, and more. This is a must-have for anyone who works with or provides care for special need children.
492 pages, ©2004, spiral-bound softcover, ISBN 978-0-89079-922-2