This third edition urges educators to focus on children's development needs, abilities, interests and cultural diversity in planning effective curriculum for the infant-through-age-eight age group. The author introduces theorists and their theories in supporting a host of concepts deemed critical to the educational advancement of young children. Readers will come to understand the importance of developmentally appropriate learning environments, themes, projects, webs, and assessments as part of curriculum planning. They will easily grasp the overall message of the book, including detailed concepts, thanks to the author's successful efforts at introducing concepts then reinforcing them throughout the remainder of the book. Other, equally effective approaches to retaining the wealth of information in the book include chapter objectives and overviews, guidance tips for teachers, multicultural/anti-bias activities, exploration activities, references, key terms and additional readings.