`This timely book focuses on learning within the context of children's growing sense of self and their emotions... a book that should be easily available for all early years practitioners to consult' - Nursery World

`Exudes a deep understanding of very young children. It fills the gap for early years practitioners in the core foundation stage area of personal, social and emotional development' - Times Educational Supplement

`Considers how children's development can be assisted in ways that are responsive to their needs. It discusses how children develop confidence, independence, awareness of the needs of others and the disposition to learn. It also looks at the issues of emotional well-being, moral and spiritual developments and how children relate to the wider world. This is an essential read for those working in this area and anyone else with an interest in the current debate about early years provision' - Childright

This book shows that personal and social development is essential to children's early learning. The kind of person we become colours all else that we do in life. But personal and social development must be supported by sensitive interventions from adults who understand children's needs.

The author presents the theory and practice of personal and social development with young children, using everyday examples from early years settings. Drawing on her extensive experience in early years settings, Marion Dowling shows how children can be helped to develop confidence, social skills and independence, and how early years workers can contribute to this. Each chapter includes suggestions for early years practice as well as professional questions for consideration.