There is an increasing need for students focusing on early childhood to be familiar with alternative practices in other countries. Providing a ready made source of information about a wide range of countries including Denmark, New Zealand, the United States, the Netherlands and many more, this essential text clearly describes the way each country understands and conceptualises childhood. Each chapter includes contextual information on country, an introduction to the theory that has shaped practice and describes the curriculum for pre-school and primary education. Including vignettes from practitioners working in each country to illustrate practice, the chapters explore key themes such as: Child development Parental involvement Teaching and learning Professionalism Assessment Pupil experience Accessibly written with questions for reflection and annotated further reading lists, this timely new book will give students a valuable insight into alternative education systems that is essential if they are to become pratitioners with a current and global approach.