An Activity-Based Approach to Early Intervention: The Definitive Guide to ABI

Early childhood professionals—learn the nuts and bolts of activity-based intervention (ABI), the trusted, child-directed approach for young children birth to 5. With the fourth edition of this classic textbook and professional guide—now expanded by 30%!—you'll discover how to embed learning opportunities in everyday activities to help children acquire and generalize functional skills and reach their developmental goals. You'll get a comprehensive introduction to the benefits, challenges, and foundations of ABI, and you'll find in-depth guidance on how to apply this popular approach with children in center- and home-based programs. Case stories, examples, and sample forms throughout clarify important points and procedures. Updated with practical new information on ABI training, implementation, and more, this book is a keystone of professional preparation for early interventionists and special educators. Implement ABI in multiple settings with diverse groups of young children, including kids with disabilities and those at risk Create multiple and varied learning opportunities within young children's natural routines and interactions Seamlessly link screening, assessment, goal development, intervention, and evaluation Develop individualized IFSP and IEP goals Observe children before and after intervention to determine next steps Understand and address the challenges of establishing evidence-based practices Work as a team with other professionals and families WHAT'S NEW: New chapters on conducting high-quality child observations, applying ABI in centers and in homes, and using ABI with children who have significant disabilities Expanded information on key topics, including training paraprofessionals on ABI and keeping families involved Updated course companion website with PowerPoint slides, study questions, and application activities

About the Author :
JoAnn (JJ) Johnson, Ph.D., is associate professor in the Child and Family Studies Department in the School of Education at Saint Cloud State University in Minnesota, USA. Previously, she worked at University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities in Louisiana, Oregon, and Nevada, USA, serving as a center-based coordinator and teacher for young children ages 2–5, as a Graduate Teaching Fellow and home services coordinator, and as an adjunct faculty member, grant and contract director, project administrator, and service provider. She was also Director of the Research and Educational Planning Center and the Nevada University Center, USA for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities from 2001 to 2008. Her professional experiences in disabilities services and studies include hospital-, home-, and center-based early intervention and developmental services; developmental assessment and evaluation; supervision and program coordination; and university and outreach training and instruction. Since the 1990s, Dr. Johnson has worked with both federal and numerous state departments of education and provided workshops and training throughout the United States and internationally on the use of the AEPS and activity-based intervention for families and professionals. In her spare time, Dr. Johnson likes to read, work on home projects, and observe young children’s development. Dr. Diane Bricker is the former director of the Early Intervention Program at the University of Oregon, USA and a key developer of the ASQ and AEPS® systems. She has focused her professional career on the development and study of assessment systems and intervention approaches for young children with disabilities and those at risk for developing disabilities. Dr. Bricker has been instrumental in the development of graduate-level personnel preparation programs that have produced professionals who are delivering quality services to thousands of young children and their families. She has published extensively in the field of early intervention.

Review :
"An outstanding resource â ] Everything you need for the practical application of ABI is included, as well as the empirical evidence supporting its effectiveness and use. This fourth edition is by far the best yet!" --Jane Squires, Ph.D.