By celebrating the spirit and principles that are enshrined in the Curriculum Guidance for the Foundation Stage (DfES, 2000), this book describes how children learn and develop best in good Early Years practice. It encourages the practitioner to take a step back from their day-to-day routines and objectives and instead focus on the child and how to create the sound beginnings that every child needs to flourish and develop in the Early Years. Aspects of the principles underpinning early child development covered include:

• the importance of play
• developing confidence and self-esteem
• relationships with others
• independent learning.

Suggesting ways of teaching young children that practitioners can be confident will be effective, this book is essential reading for all reflective practitioners in the Early Years - including trainee teachers and students of early childhood studies.