"In the book Early Childhood Education: Taking Stock, published in 1993, the writers focused on significant issues which were challenging early years educators at that time, and which threatened positive developments in the education of young children in the UK. Such was the concern at the time that this book soon sold out." "Two years on, this new book examines principles and practice which point to 'the way forward', indicating ways of overcoming some of the regressive influences on early childhood education during recent years. Examination of the context for change is the starting point for consideration of the expansion and the nature of provision for young children and their families; the question of high quality learning opportunities for all children; effective home-school partnerships; ensuring appropriate initial teacher education and continuing professional development." "The writers, from both the UK and North America, draw upon wider comparative experience, and overall reject an imposed 'top/down' model for change, emphasising instead, a 'bottom/up' approach, building on co-operative learning and evaluation by all those involved in the care and education of young children. To paraphrase Lillian de Lissa (1939), the pioneer of early childhood from Australia, we must 'build with vision and courage on the foundation already laid'."--Jacket.