It was a 1978 book called The Children of Skylark Ward that set my wife, Dianne Sandler, on the path to a distinctive career. The book describes the restricted world of children with a range of complex physical, emotional and learning needs, who were confined to the back wards of long-stay hospitals. Its author, Ann Hales, illustrated how detailed observation and innovative, sensory teaching techniques could transform these children’s lives.
After reading it, Dianne, who has died aged 68 of cancer, went on to become a play specialist and teacher, and a force for good. She worked consistently to make things happen for children and their families, and saw potential where others saw deficit.
