This textbook has been developed and written in response to the huge changes in the early years sector. The enhanced status of the sector is welcome but brings with it the need for textbooks that take students beyond the basics. In this book, students are encouraged to explore and research issues in more depth, and to take a critical and reflective approach to their practice. The book takes full account of the curriculum framework and the Foundation Stage for early years; it also acknowledges the National Literacy Strategy and the National Numercay Strategy. The book enables readers to go beyond a basic, introductory level and introduces key issues in early childhood educaiton and care, such as: researching young children; the place of work in early childhood; reducing inequalities in child health; and comparative perspectives in early childhood literacy. Although rooted firmly in practice and with a UK focus, the text introduces controversial issues and takes a look beyond the UK. The contributors' wide range of backgrounds in early years health and educaiton should ensure that the text will meet the needs of students and tutors on many different early years and early primary courses, as well as reflective practitioners working in a range of early years settings.