The title of the book may shock, it may be misleading. So let me explain. It is a cry form a parent’s soul. Help! Something is amiss. But the message that radiates from the pages should be a huge comfort. No, your child is not atypical. Your child may be different, but NOT less. The 11 stories, or case studies, told by parents are indeed hugely comforting and inspirational. So what is the book about? Who should read it? And why?

– it is for parents of neurotypical children, who want to broaden their knowledge about the development of their pre-school child

– it is for the parents and loved ones of children who may be developing in a different way, due to a range of issues.

– it is for the pre-primary and foundation phase teacher, who is a vital link in any child’s development, especially the little ones with specific challenges

– it is for therapists, who want to gain insight into the fields of expertise of other specialists, ranging from medical doctors to alternative therapists. The A-Z of professional service providers takes up an entire chapter.

– it is a practical book, which aims to be a toolbox for parents and teachers alike. Foremost therapists and doctors shared their expertise, tips and ideas for home programmes and early intervention.

– the book has drawn on the knowledge of South African experts, trying to answer the following important questions:

1. What if my child can’t hear?


2. What if my child does not start talking?


3. What if we have reading difficulties in the family? Can anything be done in the pre-school years to prevent later reading issues?


4. What if my child stutters?


5. What if my child has low muscle tone?


6. What if my child needs occupational therapy?


7. What if my child has school readiness issues?


8. What if I suspect my child has ADHD?


9. What if my child may be on the autism spectrum?


10. What if my child has anxiety issues?


11. What if we speak more than one language at home? What about bilingualism? Multilinguilism?

This is not an academic text book, but a user friendly guide to keep on the bedside table. However, great care has been taken to use the advice from credible local experts and to incorporate the latest available data from local and international researchers.

The aim of the book? To equip and empower teachers and parents to become part of the child’s champion team.

“Every child deserves a champion,” the great Rita Pierson once said.

Let’s be our children’s champions!