Developing Early Years Practice

This book provides readers working in a diverse range of early years settings with the underpinning knowledge required to increase their effectiveness in working with young children. It will explore a wide range of issues including: the roles and responsibilities of practitioners; developing reflective practice; how children learn and develop; early years curriculum; working with parents and professionals and developing inclusive environments. * Appropriate for all SureStart Unit Recognized Awards * Helps students meet the learning outcomes of the Statement of Requirement * Covers the birth to eight age range * Includes Practical work-related activities and issues for reflection Combining an understanding of the relationship between practical workplace issues and relevant academic knowledge, this is a core textbook for all Foundation Degree students working in early years education and care. It is also highly relevant for students following an Early Childhood Studies degree or B.Ed/PGCE Early Years course.

Part One: Creating Empowering Environments; Changing times: Early years practitioners today; Working with other professionals; Partnerships with parents; Positive learning environments: Listening to and protecting children; Reflection in practice; Part Two: Environments for Learning; Play and learning; Learning and developing from birth to 3; Learning and developing 3-8; Inclusive education; Assessing learning; Part Three: Curriculum in Practice; Developing children's self esteem and identity; Supporting creativity and physical development; Supporting communication, language and literacy; Supporting mathematical development; Exploring the world and using ICT; Alternative perspectives on curricula

Linda Miller is a Lecturer in Childhood Studies at the Open University; Carrie Cable is a Lecturer in Education at The Open University; Jane Devereux is Senior Lecturer in Education at the Open University.