This text addresses the importance of self-esteem in early learning. The book portrays the patterns of relationships in families, the growth of understanding between very young children and adults, and the key aspects of social and emotional development in young children's learning. Through the combination of a fictional family and theoretical commentary, the reader should be able to re-examine their perceptions of young children's behaviour and learning. Suggestions are also given on how to harness the learning potential of children's drive to explore, play and gain control. This book aims to provide practical help to all adults working and living with the under-eights, including teachers, health-visitors, nursery-nurses, social workers, child psychologists and parents.