Background

In January 2005 The Scottish Executive, with Learning and Teaching Scotland, published the document ‘Birth to Three’ which was then updated and revised in 2010 to ‘Pre Birth to Three- Positive Outcomes for Scotland’s Children and Families’. This document contains guidance for those involved in caring for babies and very young children, including early year’s workers, social care, health practitioners and students preparing to work in early years settings. The guidance also recognises the different and complementary ways in which very young children are cared for in different settings. It explains that all babies and young children need to feel loved, secure, happy and cared for in safe and healthy environments and that the care and wellbeing of children should be the concern of everyone. It suggests sensitive and respectful approaches; intending that as practitioners we will interpret and adapt the guidance as a framework for our own practice.