A comprehensive new guide to planning, implementing and reviewing play to promote a child’s learning, creativity and well-being in the ELC setting. Themes and theories are applied to practice throughout.

*Outlines the theories behind a number of early years curricula such as High/Scope, Steiner, Montessori, Naíonra, Reggio Emilia and Irish Forest Schools

*Discusses the historical, cultural and social roles play has in children's learning and day-to-day life

*Introduces and examines the role and benefits of movement and dance, visual arts, drama and music as forms of communication, therapy and education in the early years

*Applies the themes and principles of Aistear and Síolta to practice

*Demonstrates how to plan for child-led indoor and outdoor activities with specific emphasis on process-based, child-led play

*Provides clear step-by-step instructions for planning, implementing and assessing activities using reflective practice as a guide

*Emphasises the role of the adult in facilitating the child’s learning and development

*Uses images from Irish preschools demonstrating learning in action

All chapters contain exercises, sample scenarios and questions for reflection