'This is a book to be treasured. This deeply respected pioneer brings together major research literature, theoretical understanding and practical help. She does so in a way that demonstrates her love and commitment in working with young children and helping them to have rich lives intellectually and with personal fulfillment' -Professor Tina Bruce CBE . 'What comes through is weighty warmth. The weight of research and experience coupled with the warmth of the fascination of children's development over Marion's professional and personal lifetime' - Professor Mick Waters, Wolverhampton Universit y. 'This highly knowledgeable yet accessible book will be hugely valuable for all those who care deeply about young children's learning and development' -Liz Roberts, Editor, Nursery World. 'A tour de force which has the potential to change practice and thinking about early childhood' -Helen Moylett, Early Learning and Consultancy, President of Early Education . Clearly linking theory and practice, this highly accessible book will be valuable to practitioners, teachers and students. The author explores the development of children's thinking from 0-7 years, and how this affects home, Early Years settings and schools. The book includes: - case studies - professional checkpoints to help reflection - practical suggestions - guidance on involving parents - suggested reading - questions for discussion. It will be a great asset for students on Early Years Foundation Degrees, Initial Teacher Education and Early Childhood Studies courses. The reader can access additional web resources here. Marion Dowling works as a trainer and consultant in the UK and overseas, and is Vice President of Early Education, a national charity.