Attachment in Practice & Learning Through Play
It is very difficult to find films, DVDs or videos which are, to use a Goldilocks expression, 'Just right.'
I have now viewed, and used with different groups, three of the DVDs developed by Siren Films, and have found them to be an invaluable addition to my library. They range from 30-42 minutes in duration, and are helpfully divided and signposted for those inexperienced in using DVDs for training sessions. They can be used with students at introductory levels, from GCSE to level 3 courses. They can expand and remind experienced practitioners of important aspects of their work. The films would also be of interest to parents eager to understand their children's developing learning.
Because the children, parents and practitioners have been filmed consistently across time, a journey in development of several children is shown. This is unusual to find in film-making, and a rich resource for those involved in training at both initial and in-service training levels. The commentary is not too intrusive, and so we are able to see what children, parents and practitioners say to each other. This is a rare and important contribution of these. The commentary is sound in theory and supported by research and theory.
The first film I viewed was 'Attachment in Practice' which shows the development of attachment behaviour in the first three years. The film has been made in conjunction with Dr. P. Svanberg, consultant clinical psychologist. He gives very helpful analysis. We see attachment forming in early sections, and explore issues of 'insecure attachment' and 'stranger situation' in section 3. The last section shows the increasing independence that develops with secure attachment. We need a film like this to bring alive so helpfully the theoretical aspects.
The next film 'Learning through Play: Child Observation No. 8' shows a young boy from 2 year 11 months until he is 4 years old. We see him, at different ages, at home with his mother, in the garden with a peer, at playgroup, making a den with a friend, and in the park with his mother. The commentary is helpful and would form the basis of interesting discussion around the observations.
The last film 'Learning Through Play: the 3 to 4 Year Old' links with the one just described. We follow the same boy for a year when he is three years old, and explore some essential aspects of his play at home, and in the playgroup. The film also helps viewers to reflect on Communication and Language, Personal, Social and Emotional Development, Mathematical Development, Creative Development, Knowledge and Understanding of the World and Physical Development. Again, the commentary helps reflective practice to develop.
These films, Videos and DVDs will be a must for a range of practitioners and those who work with them and tutor early childhood courses of all kinds.
