One of my most vivid experiences of inclusion and diversity relates to a six-year-old child (let's call him Alex) diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. I’d been forewarned that Alex wandered about around the classroom in his own world and advised that the recommended approach was to take no notice and carry on teaching. Although I found this hard, I got used to it and the class teacher, who always sat in on my lessons, told me she was pleased that Alex seemed happy and was not throwing tantrums.

One day, when teaching the song Five little, green frogs, I brought to class a glove puppet with a frog on each finger. For some reason, Alex was entranced by this puppet and, while the class did individual work, I got each frog to say hello to him in turn. It's hard to describe Alex's total concentration and pleasure in this simple game.

From that day on, I brought the frog puppet to class every lesson. Whenever there was an opportunity, I surreptitiously got the puppet out of my bag and Alex cautiously approached to start playing. This became a routine and, little by little, Alex's confidence and language grew. This experience taught me one of the most valuable lessons of my career: that every child has unique learning potential and that by being adaptable and willing to relate to the child's world, you can help them to realise this.

My key tips for inclusion and diversity are:

• 69 Create an inclusive learning climate

• 70 Celebrate diverse identities in your classroom

• 71 Keep informed about specific learning differences

• 72 Differentiate instruction and tasks as appropriate

69 Create an inclusive learning climate

An inclusive learning climate is one in which children feel a sense of belonging and know that you believe in them and support them.

In order to create an inclusive learning climate, you need to:

• • Engage in constant self-reflection: what's your attitude towards the children you teach? Do you detect any favouritism or prejudice towards children of different race, gender or ability? Do you treat them equally?

• • Build positive relationships: work patiently at building good, working relationships with all children (see 5). Encourage respect and positive interaction between children.