ABSTRACT
PLay and conversation The Rumbold Report (DES 1990) set out three approaches to learning that are
central to the notion of 'Starting with Quality ' in early year settings. These three approaches are to do with: play, talk and the role of the adult. Rumbold emphasises that facilitating play and talk requires high quality adult interactions with children. To help us th ink about how this level of interaction takes place, we need to unpick the meaning of 'quality' in terms of the adult's role. The report implies
quality is composed of such factors as practitioners building trusting and secure relationships. Such relationships, where the child feels valued and respected, will enable them to take risks, make mistakes, tackle new problems and overcome
minor difficulties within the personal safety net of warm, attentive, caring adults.
