How we assess our youngest children is a vital part of early years practice. This book offers a clear explanation of the role of assessment in the revised Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), and step-by-step guidance for those working with children from Birth to Five on making and recording observations in practice. Key elements of the book include:

• using assessment to support learning and development


• misunderstandings and myths about assessment


• detailed guidance on the age two progress check


• developing an evidence-based understanding of assessment


• what constitutes effective assessment in early years settings


• case studies and practical examples to illustrate key points.

Online material on the Early Excellence website for use with the book includes:

• video material


• free access to selected SAGE journal articles


• an 'ask the author' facility.

Jan Dubiel is National Development Co-ordinator for Early Excellence; he has extensive experience as a practitioner and national adviser.