Language, Learning, and Disability in the Education of Young Bilingual Children

This critically important volume is highly overdue! Castro and Artiles have produced a rich body of work on the intersection of special education, bilingual education, and early childhood education. Theoretically and programmatically integrative, this text is essential reading for designing equitable educational approaches that consider emergent bilinguals’ unique assets and skills. Readers will appreciate learning about the developmental characteristics of an increasingly diverse population in early intervention and special education as they gain cultural and linguistic efficacy.

* Iliana Alanís, The University of Texas at San Antonio, USA *

The authors provide up-to-date information and critical perspectives in an integrative approach which lays the foundation for comprehensive, responsive interventions. Each chapter reflects an asset-based approach which contrasts with the long history of deficit-based views. Highly recommended for those who work with this population, but an important resource for all educators.

* Robert Rueda, University of Southern California, USA *

This book would be particularly useful to students studying Early Childhood or teaching qualifications intending to work with children aged 0–8 years old. It would provide them with a detailed knowledge in the field of language, special educational needs and bilingualism to apply to situations that they will inevitably face within their working lives. It would also be useful to academics, teachers and scholars teaching within this area.
Overall, this is an extremely informative text that will help many to give children the attention and encouragement they need.

-- Tanya Richardson * Educational Review, 20