Policy Issues in the Early Years

This book provides a unique and critical insight into the most significant issues affecting early years policy. It includes contributions from leading authorities and researchers in the field, and draws on current research to address key debates and offer international perspectives. ′Whether seen as a market commodity, a means of democratic empowerment, or the best start for all children, early years services reflect national values and political judgements. Policy making is relevant to all who work in early childhood care and education, and this book provides excellent insights and support to help practitioners develop the analytical skills that will make them "policy literate′

- Dame Gillian Pugh, Chair, National Children′s Bureau

---

′A surprisingly accessible and interesting read, so if you want to feel more ′policy literate′, and need to get ′clued up′ on current issues affecting early years this book is the ideal read for you′
- Martine Horvath, Early Years Educator

---

′The contributors to the book are all well-informed protagonists in the field of early years who each offer unique perspectives on early years policy past, present, and future′
-Early Years Update

This book should provide a useful introduction to issues surrounding early years services and could be used in a range of courses, not only for those hoping to be early years practitioners but for all those professionals who work with families and young children. Providing a unique and critical insight into some of the most significant issues affecting Early Years Policy, this book has chapters from leading authorities and researchers in the field and draws on current research, addresses key debates and considers international perspectives.

Topics covered include:

- policy making

- poverty, disadvantage and social exclusion

- promoting infant mental health

- safeguarding and well-being

- enhancing children′s potential

- parenting policies and skills

- national strategies versus professional autonomy

- the marketisation of early years provision

- democracy as a fundamental value in Early Years

Taking a critical perspective and written in an accessible style, the book is relevant to all levels of Early Years courses, from Foundation Degree to Masters. The reader is encouraged to engage with debates and to develop their own views and opinions. With staggered levels of Further Reading, the editors and contributors provide a rich source of material that encourages reflection and promotes progression.

Linda Miller is Professor Emeritus of Early Years, The Open University.

Denise Hevey is Professor of Early Years, The University of Northampton.

• | Author: Denise Hevey, Linda Miller
• | Publisher: Sage Publications Ltd
• | Publication Date: Jan 20, 2012
• | Number of Pages:
• | Language:
• | Binding: Paperback / softback
• | ISBN-13: 9780857029638
• | ISBN-10: 0857029630