ABSTRACT
Studies of day nurseries and childminders suggest that children between one and two get the least planned attention and are considered to be the most difficult age group by caregivers. In mixed-age family groups they are often seen as disruptive, having lost interest in baby toys but still too young to be involved in the more structured activities provided for older children. As they develop the capacity to move around rapidly, they have to be watched all the time. This second year is one of extraordinarily rapid growth and development, but unless careful thought is given to how their particular needs can be provided for, the experience for children, especially in group care, can easily be negative and limiting.
