Summary
Contents
Subject index
Providing a unique and critical insight into some of the most significant issues affecting Early Years Policy, this book has chapters from leading authorities and researchers in the field and draws on current research, addresses key debates and considers international perspectives.
Topics covered include: - policy making; - poverty, disadvantage and social exclusion; - promoting infant mental health; - safeguarding and well-being; - enhancing children's potential; - parenting policies and skills; - national strategies versus professional autonomy; - the marketisation of early years provision; - democracy as a fundamental value in Early Years
Taking a critical perspective and written in an accessible style, the book is relevant to all levels of Early Years courses, from Foundation Degree to Masters. The reader is encouraged to engage with debates and to develop their own views and opinions. With staggered levels of Further Reading, the editors and contributors provide a rich source of material that encourages reflection and promotes progression.
Linda Miller is Professor Emeritus of Early Years, The Open University.
Denise Hevey is Professor of Early Years, The University of Northampton.
Closing the Gap: Policy into Action
Closing the Gap: Policy into Action
Overview
In this chapter, we use the Labour government's 2008 policy developments in England of a universal early years framework for practitioners (the Early Years Foundation Stage [DCSF, 2008a; DfES, 2007]), its assessment tool (the Early Years Foundation Stage Profile [DCSF, 2008b]) and related national targets for attainment, to indicate some practical problems in putting policy into practice. In this example, it will be seen that two perfectly reasonable aspirations: to improve the overall progress of young children entering school in a local authority area, and to narrow the gap between children from advantaged and disadvantaged backgrounds, can be difficult to achieve simultaneously. Specific and planned interventions need to be put in ...
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