'This is an interesting, comprehensive and up-to-date book, which will be useful not just for students, but for experienced practitioners who want to gain a broader, more strategic understanding of the development of early childhood services' - "Early Years Update". 'This is a stimulating, well-structured book with excellent references to further relevant research. I am confident students will find this a meaningful key text in their study of early childhood, early years leadership and every aspect of early years education and practice' - Denise Corfield, Edge Hill University. Covering the major themes of early childhood education and care, this new edition of a popular book has been updated to cover recent developments in the early years field. Linking theory and practice, it covers Early Years Professional Status (EYPS), the National Professional Qualification for Integrated Centre Leadership (NPQICL) and the new Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). Where appropriate, account is taken of the regional differences between policy and practice in England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales. Chapters look at: children's rights; protecting and safeguarding children; inclusive practice for children with special educational needs; collaborative practice across education, health and social work; child health; appropriate ways to study and gain knowledge of children; theories of modern childhood; children's learning; and, international perspectives. There are 5 entirely new chapters on: working with families; children's well-being; outdoor play and learning; understanding diversity; and, workforce development and professionalism. With lots of helpful features such as chapter objectives, questions for reflection and discussion and recommended further reading, this new edition also includes: extra case studies; useful websites; and, a glossary of key terms. Essential reading for students new to Early Childhood Studies, this book will be a useful source of references and further reading throughout any early years degree programme.