Collaborative intervention in early childhood : consulting with parents and teachers of 3- to 7-year-olds /

Hirschland (Boston Univ., School of Social Work) has prepared a well-organized, clearly written text designed for clinicians in the field of early childhood. Although its title promises a look at collaborative intervention, the text appears to have much stronger roots in consultation. Despite this misdirection, the content is laid out to explore the process of consultation and explores the foundational components of approaches clinicians in the field frequently offer teachers and parents. Excellent material is provided concerning specific difficulties or concerns with clear descriptions and background information for six areas of difficulty commonly seen in early childhood. Likewise, usable and sound strategies, which may be used at home or in early childhood programs, are provided. Finally, the text provides a glimpse of several issues related to the clinical needs of young children who may be traumatized, experiencing loss, or facing issues related to cultural diversity. While the author acknowledges no one book can meet all the needs of a clinician in early childhood practice, this text does provide an excellent base for those who take on a consulting role for parents and teachers of children age 3-7. Summing Up: Recommended. Upper-division undergraduate, graduate, research, and professional collections. R. Ludy Buena Vista University