Through the presentation of detailed case studies, this book illustrates the foundations, key concepts, and developmentally appropriate practices of early childhood education, while fostering professional development. A unique case approach is the hallmark of this text; chapters seven through twelve focus on stories of real children in a way that offers a personal look into early childhood settings for children ages Birth - 8.  With a manageable length and readable narrative, the fourth edition of this popular introductory text provides an overview of the foundations, while fostering professional development and advocacy, reflective teaching and learning, and best practices for children and their families.  In addition to seven foundational chapters, each of six chronologically organized, age-related chapters integrates a profile of one child, his or her family and community, and educational/ care giving situation along with the best practices for working with a child of that age. In these chapters, students observe developmentally appropriate practices in authentic settings.  Through the case studies, theory, and journal reflection activities, students learn to incorporate 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.