In this book the author discusses the field of Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) as one in which practitioners are highly committed, dedicated and willing to learn. Generally, they try to do their very best for the children with whom they work. However, the author also shows that the field has hitherto been neglected in the areas of funding and training. Meanwhile, children whose learning needs are more demanding to staff, who are first and foremost young people (not 'SEN children'), are not having those needs met appropriately. This book is important for both trainees and existing staff in the ECEC field, whatever their professional backgrounds and titles. As a role model, the author demonstrates how to be an extended professional--a committed, compassionate, reflective and informed worker, who seeks understanding of children, parents, policy and herself, through observation, theory, research and practice. The book chapters are presented in eight units: (1) Definitions of autism, common features and relevant legislation; (2) Families of children with autism; (3) Issues of diagnosis and assessment; (4) Understanding the world of the child with autism; (5) Programmes of intervention; (6) Providing for young children with autism; (7) Mainstream or special? Issues of inclusion; and (8) Issues for consideration and suggestions for the future. Each unit includes an introduction and summary section. A glossary of terms and an index is included.