Reflective Practice and Early Years Professionalism: Linking Theory and Practice

Reviewed by Maria Gilliver, director; Laura Lou Childcare

This is a highly readable user-friendly introductory text focusing on reflective practice and professionalism, linking theory with practice. The author has woven her experience expertly into this book.

At the moment there is a clear expectation for early years practitioners and students to carefully reflect upon the way they engage with children and families. This book therefore would be of value to students as well as practitioners working in a range of early years settings. The author examines reflective practice theory and demonstrates how the understanding and skills can be applied to enhance quality.

The book is organised into seven chapters, based on reflective practice, critical thinking and managing change. Chapters open with a brief summary of the content and there are additional summaries drawing points together as each chapter progresses. They include a 'what does it mean' section defining key terms and scenarios, which will promote understanding of the content. Additionally, 'pause and reflect' sections encourage and develop reflective practice and raise questions to extend knowledge and understanding. 'Look, listen, note and learn' sections provide aspects from the chapter to consolidate theory with practice, and examples and ideas from settings from a range of different backgrounds are included.