Fully revised to include all the latest developments in early years policy, this book explores the processes of how policy is made, implemented, analysed and developed over time. In this well respected book the authors provide a complete overview of early years policy and evaluate its ongoing impact on practice. Case studies, points for reflection and activities encourage discussion and critical thinking around this complicated topic. This third edition has been significantly revised and updated to include: - a new chapter on exploring the international dimension of early years policy - discussion of the impact of the recession and the Coalition Government's policies - material on how ordinary practitioners can influence policy - a revised and updated timeline of early years legislation Essential reading for early years students at all levels, and early years practitioners at any stage of their career, this book is a must-have for navigating the minefield of early years legislation. Peter Baldock has worked extensively in early years education and is chair of the executive committees of two children's charities based in Sheffield. Damien Fitzgerald and Janet Kay are both Prinicpal Lecturers in Early Childhood Studies at Sheffield Hallam University