The benefits of the highly acclaimed Critical Skills Programme across all Key Stages are now widely appreciated - but what about the Foundation Stage? Is it possible that three and four year olds can:
- work together to solve problems?
- be good listeners?
- make decisions with their peers?
- take responsibility for their learning environment?
- reflect on the learning process to enhance their learning in the future?

Based on her pioneering work in the Early Years, Vicki Charlesworth demonstrates that the answer to all these questions is a resounding 'Yes!' Using the powerful principles of Critical Skills Programme, she outlines proven strategies for creating a young learning community in which children can feel confident and secure, and identify how to take their learning forward. The book provides a wealth of practical ideas on introducing problem-based learning, getting children working collaboratively and using formative assessment as a teaching and learning tool. All the ideas are underpinned by a detailed analysis of the way the skills and dispositions can be linked to existing practice. Also included are helpful child-speak scripts that can be used by early years practitioners as they begin to coach children in the skills.

Teachers' resources to accompany this book are available online.