Introduction to Early Childhood Education: Equity and Inclusion

Darragh (early childhood education, Heartland Community College) offers an early childhood education text with a commitment to inclusion of children with disabilities, with information on special education integrated throughout. The text draws from the fields of early childhood general and special education and child development, and employs an ecological systems approach to understanding the relationships between child and family, the profession, and the community at large. Chapter opening vignettes, boxes on professional development, case studies, and chapter questions and activities are included in a two-color layout with b&w photos. Appendices offer codes of ethics and a glossary, and a companion web site provides authentic classroom video footage, simulations, case studies, and examples of children's work. The text is for students who will teach young children, work with families, direct programs, and provide social services for young children. Annotation c2010 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Dr. Johnna Darragh has taught early childhood education courses at the associate, baccalaureate, and masters degree level. She is currently a Professor of Early Childhood Education at Heartland Community College, and serves as faculty liaison to their inclusive Child Development Lab. Johnna is a member of several Illinois committees focusing on workforce development and inclusion, and is the Illinois Liaison to the National Professional Development Center on Inclusion. She is a member of the Illinois Professional Development Advisory Committee (PDAC) Steering Committee, and serves on the National Center to Mobilize Early Childhood Knowledge (CONNECT) Steering Committee. In 2008, Johnna was a participant in the 2008 Project Forum on Universal Design. She has experience teaching infant/toddlers and preschoolers, and as a home visitor/family support specialist. Her recent publications and presentations focus on inclusion and Universal Design for Early Childhood Education. Johnna has a Ph.D. in Human and Community Development from the University of Illinois.