This edited volume provides a critical account of the theories and policies that have informed work in the field of early childhood and explores how they have operated in practice. Underpinning the theoretical debates are the familiar tensions between global norms and local contexts; increasing inequality alongside economic progress, and the increasing prominence of business and the private sector in delivering aid programs. The authors offer a profound critique on an increasingly important topic and discuss alternative models of policy and practice.

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Anne Trine Kjørholt is Professor and former director of the Norwegian Centre for Child Research, Department of Education and Life Long Learning, at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Norway. She has led many research projects in Europe and African countries related to various topics, such as early childhood policies and practices, children's rights, cross cultural perspectives on childhood, local knowledge and identities across three generations.

Helen Penn is Professor Emerita of Early Childhood in the School of Education at University of East London, UK, and is currently Visiting Professor at Thomas Coram Research Unit in the Institute of Education at University College London, UK. Dr. Penn is an expert on early education and childcare policies. She works in many countries for international bodies such as the EU and the OECD and has a particular interest in developing countries.

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