Infants, toddlers, and two-year-olds grow best when they are loved, cared for, and valued as unique individuals. This book will help you provide children with high-quality care in a responsive learning environment. You will learn how to apply theories of child development to your own practices, build strong relationships with children, and support their social-emotional, physical, cognitive, and language development. You will also learn how your role in the lives of young children makes a tremendous difference in their growth and development.

The strategies and tips inside reflect six key principles:

Responsive caregiving is essential to children's growth and development.
Trust is the cornerstone of healthy relationships.
Children need stable and secure early care and learning environments.
Children are ready and eager to learn.
Play is central to children's learning.
Responsive caregivers collaborate with families to support children's growth and development.

Jean Barbre, EdD, has thirty years of experience working with children and families as a licensed marriage and family therapist, preschool director, teacher, college instructor, national and international speaker, and a guest presenter on public television. Dr. Barbre holds a master's degree in child and family studies from California State University, Long Beach, a master's degree in counseling from California State University, Fullerton, and a doctorate in educational leadership from Pepperdine University.