By focusing on key figures in early years education and care, this book considers the influential thinkers and ground-breaking approaches that have revolutionized practice. With contributions from leading authorities in the field, chapters provide an explanation of the approach, an analysis of the theoretical background, case studies, questions and discussion points to facilitate critical thinking.

Included are chapters on:

- Froebel

- Psychoanalytical theories

- Maria Montessori

- Steiner Waldorf education

- High/Scope

- Post-modern and post-structuralist perspectives

- Forest Schools

- Vivian Gussin Paley

- Te Whatilderiki

Written in an accessible style and relevant to all levels of early years courses, the book has staggered levels of Further Reading that encourage reflection and promotes progression.

Linda Miller is Professor Emeritus of Early Years, The Open University

Linda Pound is a consultant and author, renowned for her work in early years education and care.

Taking a Critical Perspective - Linda Miller and Linda Pound
PART ONE: THEORETICAL AND ANALYTICAL POSITIONS
Not Just the Tip of the Iceberg: Psychoanalytic Ideas and Early Years Practice - Julia Manning-Morton
Postmodern and Post-Structuralist Perspectives on Early Childhood Education - Deborah Albon
PART TWO: FOUNDATIONAL THEORIES
Froebel Today - Tina Bruce
Maria Montessori in the United Kingdom: 100 Years on - Martin Bradley et al
Steiner Waldorf Early Childhood Education: Offering a Curriculum for the 21st Century - Jill Tina Taplin
PART THREE: CONTEMPORARY THEORIES
The High-Scope Approach - Ann S Epstein, Serena Johnson and Pam Lafferty
The Wisdom of Vivian Gussin Paley - Trisha Lee
Forest Schools in the Early Years - Sarah Blackwell and Linda Pound
Relationships with People, Places and Things: Te Whãriki - Anne B Smith
Critical Issues - Linda Pound and Linda Miller