With useful chapter summaries, activities and reflection points to help readers track their academic journey, this text draws on the experiences of students on the degree programme for the benefit of students new to practice. This fully updated second edition includes two new chapters on 'The inclusive practitioner' and 'The safeguarding practitioner'. It will: Fully supporting students' practice experience and development of their critical and creative thinking, this book helpfully synthesises theory and practice in an applied and evaluative manner. The authors cover a range of themes including critical reflection, early childhood pedagogy, confidence building, communication skills, personal and professional development and employability alongside academic writing and research skills. This textbook is essential reading for students on all early childhood studies degree programmes.