This is a textbook in child development for students who are training to work with young children as childminders, au pairs and nannies and in playgroups, pre-schools, nurseries and infant primary school classes. It is also intended for others whose careers will involve dealing with young children and their families. The book covers children's early social and emotional development, cognitive awareness and physical and perceptual progress. The book links early childhood care, educational practice and the theory of child development, identifies the skills necessary for working with young children and presents practical training in an accessible way. Written from an Irish perspective, the book is particularly suited to students taking courses in child-care, pre-school care and applied social studies and those preparing for NNEB (nursery nursing) and similar examinations. It is also a useful handbook for adult courses in parenting and early childhood development.