Meaningful Differences in the Everyday Experience of Young American Children

Amazon asks: "What did you use the product for?"Mostly I read books but sometimes use them as doorstops.

Here's some not-so-new news: Poor and rich families talk to their kids differently which may result in why the later group does better academically than the former.Hart and Risley's book thoroughly investigates what is said in poverty, low SES, professional, and elite families over 10 years (both data compilation and analysis). Most interestingly is the nature of the TYPES of utterances said. The prevalence of directive (i.e. giving orders or chastizement over misbehaviors) dialogue increases as the SES of a family decreases. On the other hand, the prevalence of conversational (i.e. exploration, discussing about things, and problem solving dialogue) talk increases as the SES increases and decreases as SES decreases.As an early childhood professional, I think it speaks volumes to experts in emergent literacy and parent education. Parents MUST talk to their children as intelligent adults would talk to them--not as babies or in a condescending way--if they are to promote optimal language, literacy, and communication proficiency for later life.

I bought this book by mistake, as it was removed from the required textbook list for a class I registered for. In spite of not being needed for the class, I still read it. I enjoyed the level of detail and the identification of control measures for minimizing observer bias. The research and conclusions are very helpful to anyone who works in the early childhood development arena.

So much important data, the research is extensive and meticulous and anyone working with or raising young children needs to know. They recognize the number of words a child is exposed to is correlated with their educational output. Although it includes the important data if one desires to read it, it is also explained in normal applicable terms. They have found a solution to the education gap in poverty that is simple and evedence based.

If you are interested in how young children acquire language, then this book is for you. It is simply a record of research findings.

The beginning of this book would discourage you from continuing to read. But once you get into the "meat" of the book, you will find some interesting information. I would caution you to examine closely the notion that we are in a hopeless situation when it comes to some children from low SES (There is hope). This book has increased by determination to find ways to assistance families in becoming aware of what they can do to increase the chances of their children being able effectively navigate the educational (and other systems) to insure equity and access.

A very important book for expecting parents and those with children under 2 years old. How to treat a baby so it grows up to be a successful learner. Based on data from actual children treated in different ways as babies and followed well into their school years.

Like the book

quick delivery and good value