What are the new benchmarks for the future in good early years’ provision? What should children and parents expect from practice given recent research evidence on how young children thrive?

Developing and managing early years provision has changed significantly over the last few years. Parental expectations, policy creep, bureaucracy overload, inadequate training, a litigious climate, over-dependence on screens, traffic danger and child protection anxiety are among the many challenges now faced by early years providers. This timely new book explores the key issues faced by settings and what they mean for early years practice.

Looking at the real evidence around children’s learning and wellbeing, parental preference and social trends, the book covers:

• Neuro-scientific research into the way children learn
• What parents know and expect
• Children’s wellbeing
• The indoor and outdoor environment
• Adult intervention
• The risk/benefit equation
• Nutrition, health and exercise

Drawing on examples of outstanding practice from a wide range of settings, this exciting new book will help practitioners reach beyond what is expected and provide the very best for the children in their care.