Recognising the importance of 'the first one thousand days', from the beginning of a woman's pregnancy until her child's second birthday, this comprehensive guide takes a fresh look at the role of the practitioner in supporting the family, mother and child from conception through to early infancy.

A period of dramatic physical, social and emotional change for both the parent and child, an infant's experiences during his or her first two years of life have a significant impact on later development. From Conception to Two Years brings together key research, theory and experiences from practice to further practitioners' knowledge and understanding of this critical period, and it informs professional approaches to providing care. Offering an explanation of key issues affecting the care of very young children, chapters feature reflective questions and promote discussion and further thinking on topics including:

• understanding and supporting parents and families during the transition to parenthood

• building a positive practitioner-parent relationship

• development, growth and care during the prenatal period

• approaches to care in the perinatal period

• attachment and the development of emotional connections

• ethical issues surrounding the care of infants

• creating playful care opportunities with infants and their families.

Giving Early Years practitioners and students the knowledge, skills and confidence they need to effectively support and care for children and their families from the very start, From Conception to Two Years is an essential guide for the provision of high quality infant care.