Starting with Choice

When children are encouraged to choose, they develop confidence and the ability to make decisions for themselves. It is good for them, and for the places they learn and play. Young children with disabilities have a right to make choices too. Involving all children in decision-making can be challenging but, if the right questions are asked in the right ways, young disabled children can and will express their views. Starting with Choice provides early years workers with clear, practical guidance on consulting young children, and a range of techniques that help young children to express their views and make choices. It also looks at when consultation can be effective, at how it fits in to the foundation stage guidance, and at how to train and support early years workers to gain the skills they need. This guide shows that innovative and exciting solutions can be found so that all children can participate in group decision-making.