Noting that the work of early childhood educators is often complex, variable, and individualized, this booklet brings together a range of teacher stories that describe such work across many settings. A number of challenges for early childhood education are described, and a host of innovative teaching ideas are presented in an attempt to describe what can be achieved when combining existing and possible teaching and learning practices. Chapters include: (1) "Talking about Teaching and Learning" (Marilyn Fleer); (2) "The Work of Preschool to Year 3 Teachers: What Informs Our Practice?" (Marilyn Fleer); (3) "Rethinking Classroom Organisation: Learning Centres in Primary School" (Karina Sargeson); (4) "Welcoming Parents into the Primary School" (Bernadette Hayes); (5) "In Partnership with Aboriginal Children" (Michael Colbung and Anne Glover); (6) "Making a Difference: Peace, Global, and Environmental Education in Primary Schools" (Karina Sargeson); (7) "Talking Gender" (Glenda MacNaughton); and (8) "Play: Creative or Confining" (Liza Carroll). The book advocates the need to reconceptualize the early years of primary education and to draw upon its strengths as a way to create powerful learning experiences for young children. The text urges reconsideration of some of the "norms" of primary school education, such as expected classroom arrangement and management, with a view to providing learning centers and empowering children to take part in the direction of their education. Contains 16 references. (AA)