This guide was designed for use as a reference when planning and reviewing the curriculum of Strathclyde, Scotland preschool centers, as well as a resource tool for parents and others wishing to learn about the curriculum. The guide is divided into 9 main sections that address: (1) the definition, design, and implementation of curriculum; (2) the values and intentions of the curriculum; (3) child development, learning, and play; (4) the components of the curriculum; (5) how the curriculum is put into practice and made accessible and relevant to every child; (6) observations and assessment of children; (7) internal and external evaluations of the curriculum; (8) the management of home-to-school and preschool-to-primary school transitions; and (9) things adults can do to help children learn. A 51-item annotated bibliography and a glossary of terms are included. Three appendices contain excerpts from the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, and from other preschool policy statements. (MDM)