Exceptional Children and Youth uses a straightforward approach and a highly personalized tone to discuss research and teaching practice, emphasizing the effect of disabilities on the lives of individuals, their families, and their teachers. The authors instill respect and empathy for those with disabilities, thereby encouraging preservice teachers to further develop students' potential. By focusing on themes of commonality, collaboration, and "can do" throughout the book, the authors encourage respect, minimize teacher anxiety, and de-emphasize the typical clinical approach in this market.

The new edition features reorganized chapters on learning disabilities, behavior disorders, moderate mental retardation, and severe retardation to reflect the sequence in which courses are most often taught. The text includes expanded technology content that explores how teachers can use instructional technologies with special needs children.