Edited by Debby Cryer, Ph.D., & Richard M. Clifford, Ph.D.

A research-based resource for professionals and students, this text gives readers a thorough overview of early childhood education and care as well as a new awareness of the strengths, challenges, and concerns facing the system — both now and in the years to come. Highly respected expert contributors give readers clear and concise historical background, illuminating data and findings on the current state of the field, and reflections and insights on future directions. Key areas covered include

• the definition of quality education and care
  
  
• access to education and care programs
  
  
• regulatory policy
  
  
• curriculum and program content
  
  
• funding issues
  
  
• staff roles and compensation
  
  
• specific initiatives such as Head Start and Early Head Start
  
  
• family engagement and support
  
  
• innovations and future directions in practice, policy, and research

Equally useful for preservice and in-service professionals, this essential text leaves readers with a thorough understanding of early childhood education and care in the United States.

About the Editors
About the Contributors
Introduction
Naomi Karp

1. Overview of the Current Policy Context
   Sheila B. Kamerman and Shirley Gatenio
   
   
2. Defining Program Quality
   Debby Cryer
   
   
3. Access to Programs
   Edna Runnels Ranck
   
   
4. Regulatory Policy
   Gwen G. Morgan
   
   
5. Staff Roles, Education, and Compensation
   Gwen G. Morgan
   
   
6. Program Content and Implementation
   Lilian Katz
   
   
7. Family Engagement and Support
   Barbara T. Bowman
   
   
8. Funding Issues for Early Childhood Education and Care Programs
   W. Steven Barnett and Leonard N. Masse
   
   
9. Evaluation and Research
   Kristin Moore and Jerry West
   
   
10. Innovations in Early Childhood Education and Care
    Victoria R. Fu
    
    
11. Challenges for Early Childhood Education and Care Policy
    Richard M. Clifford, Moncrieff Cochran, and Sharon Lynn Kagan

Index