ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the youngest children, who may not yet communicate verbally, and reflect upon what it means to listen and respond respectfully to babies and toddlers. The chapter uses five 'Cs' as a basis for a discussion of participation in group care for children under three years of age. These are: child, curriculum, care, connectedness, and community. The Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum is mandatory for all providers of early years care and education for children from birth to age five, in England. Physical development has been designated as a prime area in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum which is relevant for early years practitioners to consider, particularly in relation to babies, and very young children who are unable to use speech. Connectedness can be seen as a key to participation within day care settings as it can be built between all members of the group.
