What does it mean to be two?
By Jennie Lindon
Mar 5, 2010, 13:00

This book offers a thorough study of the behaviour, development and interests of two year olds, and how practitioners can provide the best nurturing environment to promote their development and learning.

Jennie Lindon begins with a discussion of the historical split between care and education and how this division is meaningless from the child's perspective. She goes on to describe experiences that two year olds might have when they are the youngest in the group, and the difficulties they may encounter particularly in terms of adult-directed structured activities.

The following chapters look at the six areas of learning in turn, inviting reflection on one's practice, with thought-provoking boxes at the side  of the text entitled "Food for Thought". for example:

Two-year-old social skills are a work in progress. The Property Laws of the Toddler.....an amusing, yet accurate reminder of what it means to be two:

• If I like it, it's mine.
• If it's in my hand, it's mine.
• If I can take it from you, it's mine.
• If it's mine, it must never appear to be yours, in any way
• If I had it a little while ago, it's mine.
• If I think it's mine, it's mine

(page 17)

Further text boxes entitled "Being a Helpful Adult" emphasize the importance of the practitioner's role and offer suggestions for developing high quality interactions and provision for your children.

The book is brimming with examples of outstanding practice and concludes with the section, "What should concern you?"; an opportunity to consider what behaviours, interests and skills you might expect from a two year old, whilst "making sure that you do not become concerned about skills that are unrealistic for this age group" (page 56).

A superb book for all those working directly with two year olds, either to read as part of one's continuous professional development, or to use as a basis for staff meeting discussions when reviewing your provision and its impact for children's learning and development.

Published by Step Forward Publishing and available for £15.99 from Practical Preschool