Child Protection in the Early Years

[This book] will prove a valuable resource in providing those working in ECEC with the knowledge and guidance to help them take full advantage of their skills and understanding in order to safeguard children. -- From the foreword by Dr Celia Doyle, author of 'Working with Abused Children: Focus on the Child' Dr Lumsden's Child Protection in the Early Years is a timely addition to resources in the industry. Lumsden has used her expertise as a social worker and university lecturer to share her unique knowledge in this ground-breaking book. It is a useful reference point and a must-read for those looking to support professional development within the Early Years and education sectors. -- Laura Henry, award-winning international Early Years consultant, trainer and writer Lumsden's book is a valuable addition which will help to demystify the complexities surrounding safeguarding and child protection. From the outset, the purpose of this book is clearly articulated and the content is accessible at the same time as being challenging. The reader is guided in understanding the theory underpinning safeguarding practice by the use of helpful and interesting case studies. The content addresses the different legislation of the four nations of the UK. I am confident that engaging with the content in this book will be empowering for practitioners and emerging practitioners because the knowledge and learning will build confidence in developing good practice in this sensitive area. I really enjoyed reading it and highly recommend that all professionals who have responsibility for children's welfare engage with this important book. -- Dr Jackie Musgrave, Programme Lead for Early Childhood at The Open University This book provides unique insights into how practitioners should protect young children drawing upon key theoretical and practice principles. The author identifies newer and more perverse forms of abuse affecting some children in their early childhood and proposes ways of working that are evidence informed and have the best interests of children at the fore. This is an essential text for students from a range of professional backgrounds with an interest in enhancing their practice with young children and their families and the use of practice points and exercises bring the book's contents to life. -- Dr Prospera Tedam, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge A most comprehensive, up-to-date text, which is suitable for all levels of professionals, practitioners, undergraduates and post-graduates in the field of early childhood. It is serious and well researched with appropriate theoretical frameworks, yet it is very readable and engaging. There are appropriate case studies and questions for reflection, which demonstrate a great understanding of humanity. -- Carolyn Silberfeld, Chair Director, Early Childhood Studies Degrees Network (ECSDN) I have already put this onto my reading list at work and given the students opportunity to incorporate it into their assignments. The students are buzzing, so much so they are already asking when they can grab a copy from the library. They now know all the answers, damn, they will find out all they need to know and not read anything else. I can see them now. Why is he getting us to read books, journal articles when all the answers are in one book. ...Final thought, not only does this book give you guidance, clarification and accountability to question your understanding around the subject, it gives you a reason to carry on with the great work that Early Years, Care and Education staff working with young children do an a daily basis. -- Aaron Bradbury, Senior lecturer in Early Childhood at University College Birmingham Practitioners working in the early years sector are often the key professionals caring for children and families in complex, difficult and often painful situations. Eunice's book takes a thoughtful and helpful approach to a vital aspect of practice in the early years that will develop confidence and contribute to effective decision making throughout the safeguarding process. There is an excellent use of vignettes, exercises and reflective moments throughout this book that will help students and practitioners think about their engagement with children and families in ways that are healthy for all concerned. The book also offers a theoretical perspective, offering a challenging discussion on a variety of topics - it will certainly be a key text for my students! -- Dr Caroline Leeson, Associate Professor, Early Childhood Studies, York St. John University This is a superb text for those new to the study of ECEC and working in the field. There is an excellent focus on process but also the importance of effective communication with children, parents, colleagues and other professionals. The author emphasises the importance of non-judgemental reflective practice in a way that enables readers to understand the importance of their role in working with young children. This text offers an accessible, informative insight of this complex area. -- Dr Damien Fitzgerald, Principal Lecturer, Department of Education, Childhood and Inclusion, Sheffield Hallam University