Garrick (Sheffield Hallam U., UK) presents an updated text for preservice and inservice practitioners in early childhood education and care settings. Combining research with practical examples, the text covers childhood development theory; children's agency in their social worlds; the role of adults in children's learning; practical issues in outdoor play decisions, such as program structure, weather, gender, inclusion, health and safety; and curriculum planning. The second edition incorporates recent British and international research findings, material on the Every Child Matters Agenda and the Early Years Foundation Stage guidance, new case studies, and a fully updated list of useful organizations and agencies. The text includes both UK-specific and generic material, and numerous international references and case examples, making it informative for a global readership. Annotation ©2010 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)