This book examines 12 nurseries in three countries - how they are organized, who works in them, and which children attend them. In particular, it explores what staff think about the work they are doing, how they view it, and whether or not they enjoy it. The author traces how these views and opinions are translated into action, and how they affect the children. She also explores what contribution the context and location of the nurseries makes to their practice. The author compares her observations of daily practice in these nurseries, and draws valuable conclusions about the values and practices which support good nursery provision.

The role that nurseries play in supplementing family care is an important subject – but in the UK, there is currently little consensus about what nurseries should provide, how they should be run, and who should pay for them. This topical book sets out to look at: • Who benefits from using nurseries? • Who can access nurseries? • Who should provide them? • How do children behave while they are in nurseries and after they leave them? • What do they learn as a result of these experiences in nurseries? • What are the myths and assumptions about bringing up children that make nurseries possible? Some countries, particularly in the Nordic regions, have managed to deal with these issues coherently, but the current blanket solutions in the UK, which are geared towards fiscal priorities, may need rethinking. In this book, Helen Penn attempts to answer the question: Is there a more considered way ahead?

The book provides fascinating insights for students on Early Childhood Studies courses and other courses aimed at people intending to work with young children. It should also be of interest to students of social history. --Book Jacket.