Through the presentation of detailed case studies, this book illustrates and integrates the foundations, key concepts, and developmentally appropriate practices of early childhood education, while fostering professional development. Written to bring the reader into the child's world, the third edition of this popular introductory text provides an overview of the foundations of early childhood education, while fostering professional development, reflective teaching and learning, and best practices for children and their families. In addition to six foundational chapters, each of six chronologically organized, age-related chapters includes an integrated, thematic case study that highlights one child; his or her family, community, and caregiving and educational situation: and the best practices available for that age. These chapters provide students the opportunity to observe developmentally appropriate practices in authentic settings. Through the case studies, theory, and journal reflection activities, students learn to integrate new concepts and best practices for young children with their own experiences. This learning process serves as the foundation for a lifelong journey of working with young children in a variety of early childhood education settings.