This book provides a comprehensive guide to safeguarding and child protection in the early years. Aimed at students and practitioners it offers insight into contemporary developments in early years and safeguarding practice and sets out the legal and policy foundations for effective practice before exploring areas of contemporary concern.


Drawing on the everyday dilemmas and experiences of early years professionals, the book focuses on helping you to seek solutions to both practical and moral issues in a context of legal duties and responsibilities. Covering a broad range of issues, chapters consider:










how to identify physical and/or emotional neglect







consequential abuse that can occur as a result of parental behaviours







safeguarding children's health & well-being







safeguarding against the misuse of technology







communication with parents, carers and the `team around the child' alongside examples of real-life issues and consequences that have arisen when communication has broken down







safeguarding as a member of a team







safeguarding through inter-professional / multidisciplinary work







Written by a multi-disciplinary team who have a wealth of experience in safeguarding and child protection, the early years foundation stage, health visiting, social work, the police, and in leading and managing services, this timely new text is essential reading for all those working with young children.