Includes bibliographical references and indexes.

Policy and discourses -- Taking account of development -- Approaches to early years learning -- The diversity of children's early experiences -- Transitions and starting school -- Where to in the future?

The concept of 'readiness for school' is attractive to policy-makers, but many academics, researchers and practitioners argue that an early start to formal learning may be misguided. This book introduces readers to an increasing body of evidence which demonstrates that young children need opportunities to learn and develop in environments that support their emotional and cognitive needs, offering opportunities to develop autonomy, competence and self-regulation skills.