ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book emphasizes the importance of the parents' understanding of their own child and helps parents adapt what they know about ordinary child development for their own situations. It introduces "typical expectations", which summarizes what parents usually expect to find in a child of that age or at that stage. The book is broadly related to education, followed by "engaging with the wider world". It suggests that the message is strongly expressed in the words of Carol and David's parents: "Parents are the ones who know the most about their children. The book talks about mental and emotional health, which is relevant to the parent, brother, or sister of a younger or older child. It may be more difficult for families of children with learning disabilities to access appropriate help and advice if mental health and behavioural problems appear.
