This resource highlights the wonder of infants' and toddlers' development, learning, and loving capabilities. The authors describe how very young children eagerly engage with teachers and the environment to gain a sense of self and self-worth; of belonging, relating to others in healthy ways; communicate easily and effectively; act on their ideas; problem-solve; and move successfully. The book describes how teachers support both development and learning with relationship-based interactions and program planning as well as provide young children the protection, affection, and emotional connections they need to thrive. Throughout, the authors address the teacher's critical role in reflecting, observing, and facilitating learning; working with families; and creating supportive environments and responsive learning opportunities.

IntroductionPart 1: Meeting Young Children's Needs Through Strong RelationshipsChapter 1: Build Strong Relationships with Infants and ToddlersChapter 2: Create Mutually Rewarding Relationships with FamiliesPart 2: How Infants and Toddlers Develop and LearnChapter 3: The Wonder of Learning to "Be": Emotional Development and the SelfChapter 4: The Wonder of Belonging and Becoming Social with PeersChapter 5: The Wonder of Learning to CommunicateChapter 6: The Wonder of Thinking and LearningChapter 7: The Wonder of Learning to Move SuccessfullyPart 3: Developing a Responsive, Relationship-Based ProgramChapter 8: A Responsive, Relationship-Based TeacherChapter 9: Responsive, Relationship-Based EnvironmentsChapter 10: Routines and RelationshipsChapter 11: Creating Responsive Learning OpportunitiesChapter 12: More Curriculum Ideas: Singing, Music, and ReadingChapter 13: Adult Positive Guidance and Children's Relationship ChallengesPart 4: You as a ProfessionalChapter 14: A Relationship-Based ProfessionAppendixReferencesAcknowledgmentsAbout the Authors