For Introduction to Early Childhood courses. In this comprehensive, market-leading text, one of the best-known authors in the field provide the knowledge and skills that prospective early childhood teachers need in order to confidently educate young children while effectively collaborating with parents, other professionals, and community agencies. Here is the broadest foundational coverage available, organized around seven core themes: Professionalism in Practice, Theory to Practice, Diversity, Family-Centered/Community-Based Practice, Timeliness, Developmentally-Appropriate Practice, and Applying Technology. Throughout the material, special features showcase the reality of early childhood education as it happens today, and encourage students to take full advantage of the educational arena to give all young children the tools they need to succeed in school and in life.