This work is designed for those needing to understand and comply with regulations for childhood education and care. The author relates his text to the new framework resulting from the Government's developing National Child Care Strategy.

Specifically, it reflects the transfer of responsibility from social to educational services and the establishment of a new regulatory body, The Early Years Directorate, a new arm of OFSTED.

Major controversial issues are elucidated and different standpoints are explained, but the book's main focus is on the need to establish a sound working relationship between the new regulatory regime, on the one hand, and proprietors, managers, practitioners and advisors on the other.

Peter Baldock is Under Eights Team Manager in Sheffield City Council's Young Children's Service.