This unique book provides childminders, in practice or training, with the sound foundation required to work safely and professionally with children. Written by two of the country's leading child-care authors, the book covers children's needs, behaviour and development, as well as featuring sections on safety, child protection, disabled children, professionalism, relationships with parents and childminding as a business. This book has been produced in conjunction with the National Childminding Association, and will provide a useful and reliable guide to all practising childminders. It also provides a useful complement to the DCP 1 course, and will be an invaluable course companion.