With the number of infants and toddlers in group care increasing, this work aims to offer a timely contribution to early childhood learning practises. Expanding on the idea of curriculum as a dynamic, responsive experience rather than a rigid learning structure, the authors stress the need for education along with nurturing for very young children. They focus on play as the basis for curriculum and show how infant/toddler "educarers" can combine theory and practice taking into account both the physical and social environments. Through case descriptions of actual children, this volume discusses how to accommodate children with different development levels, backgrounds, personalities, and special needs. Finally, the authors explore ways to enhance curriculum quality.

Foreword by: Bettye Caldwell