'This text will be an invaluable addition to the reading of students and tutors alike. It has been written thoughtfully for students embarking on university courses that study aspects of early childhood education. The introductory chapters give the reader a sense of the thinking and reflection that is helpful for them at the beginning of their studies and a clear focus on the rights of our youngest children roots the text in a sound pedagogical frame. The later chapters broaden the argument and feel very relevant to the current context in their explorations of the policy and practice of EYFS. I would strongly recommend this text.'Jo Albin-Clark, Senior Lecturer in Early Years Education, Edge Hill University

PART ONE: INTRODUCTION TO STUDYING EARLY CHILDHOODStudying for a Degree - Louise DrydenUpholding Children's Rights in Early Years Settings - Carolyne WillowBecoming a Reflective Practitioner and Practitioner Research - Judy StevensonObservation and Assessment - Jonathan GlazzardPART TWO: HOW CHILDREN DEVELOPHow Children Develop - Penny MukherjiHow Children Learn - Linda PoundThe Importance of Play - Justine HowardPART THREE: INFLUENCING FACTORSThe Historical Background of Early Childhood Care and Education: Influencing Factors - Linda PoundSocial Inequalities - Gianna Knowles and Penny MukherjiHealth and Well-being - Penny MukherjiRecent Legislation and Policy Initiatives (1997-Present) - Tricia JohnsonPART FOUR: APPROACHES AND PRACTICECurricula and Pedagogic Principles in the Foundation Stage (0-5) - Edwina MitchellWorking in Partnership with Parents in Early Childhood Settings - Penny Mukherji and Vicky MummerySafeguarding and Protecting Children - Claire M. RichardsManagement and Leadership - Judy StevensonPART FIVE: IMPLEMENTING THE CURRICULUM Young Children's Personal, Social and Emotional Development: Foundations of Being - Julia Manning-MortonCommunication, Literacy and ICT - Louise DrydenPhysical Development and the Role of the Physical Environment - Rita WhiteSpecific Areas of Development and Learning (Mathematics, Understanding of the World, Expressive Arts and Design) - Ros GarrickTransitions - Hilary FabianGlossaryIndex