ABSTRACT

This book examines the philosophical and theoretical foundations of early years practice, and supports practitioners as they reflect on the collective and personal rationales which motivate and inform their work with young children. Theoretical underpinnings are explored from a variety of perspectives, and are translated into effective strategies for application in a range of early years settings.

Featuring contributions from leading early years professionals, The Philosophy and Practice of Outstanding Early Years Provision draws on sound expertise to deepen the reader’s understanding of the concepts and ideas behind everyday practice. The book is divided into four easily navigated sections which explore key issues including the creation of enabling environments, leadership in the early years, the opportunities and challenges presented by diversity, and the value of creative approaches. Recommended strategies are discussed in relation to emerging global pressures and the needs of the contemporary child, inviting practitioners to modify and enhance future behaviour and practice.

This will be essential reading for students and practitioners who wish to improve current and future practice by gaining insight into the philosophical foundations which underpin outstanding provision.

chapter |4 pages

Introduction

ByPat Beckley

part |56 pages

Philosophy for an enabling environment

chapter 1|15 pages

The contemporary early years world

ByPat Beckley

chapter 2|21 pages

Philosophy in the early years foundation stage

Playing with ideas
ByAimee Quickfall

chapter 3|18 pages

Thinking about leadership in the early years sector

ByJonathan Wainwright

part |44 pages

Diversity and diverse philosophical ideas

chapter 4|17 pages

The multicultural classroom

Celebrating diversity and challenging disparities
ByAmi Montgomery

chapter 5|12 pages

Creating and thinking critically

ByPat Beckley

chapter 6|13 pages

Perspectives on learning

A changing environment
ByPat Beckley

part |40 pages

Philosophical perspectives for creativity

chapter 7|10 pages

Creativity in an early years foundation stage setting

ByEmma Revill, Pat Beckley

chapter 8|16 pages

Music in the early years

ByJohn Stafford

chapter 9|12 pages

At one with nature

ByPat Beckley, Karin Moen

part |40 pages

Wellbeing as a foundation for philosophy

chapter 10|14 pages

Wellbeing for life in the early years

ByPat Beckley, Liz Creed

chapter 11|14 pages

Adults working with young children

ByPat Beckley

chapter 12|8 pages

Early years challenges for the future

ByPat Beckley

chapter |2 pages

Concluding comments

ByPat Beckley