Intended as an integrated and comprehensive guide, this book consists of 10 chapters arranged in 3 sections, each of which is intended for a different audience. A foundation section for the general reader is offered in chapters 1 through 3. Respectively, these chapters discuss basic principles of early childhood education and trends from theory, practice, and research that have contributed to the evolution of infant and toddler programs; describe program approaches that have emerged from child care and early intervention materials; and offer descriptions of the development of infants and toddlers. In chapter 2, the concept of education for the very young is described, and an interpersonal/environmental approach is presented in detail. The second section, including chapters 4 through 7, is intended as a guide for professionals and students. These four chapters describe the roles of teachers and caregivers, discuss the physical setting and "child environment" of a center, present a wide range of program activities, and discuss several programming issues and problems. For more advanced students and professionals, chapters 8 through 10 focus on specialized topics: offered are guidelines for conducting a parent/child education program, descriptions of features of several unique program models, and administrative suggestions for program operation. Early childhood competency profiles are appended. (Author/RH)