This book presents for discussion principles and issues that encourage early childhood educators to evaluate their current approaches to programming and planning for young chidren with emphasis on the individual child. The book offers the opportunity to affirm the practice of developmentally appropriate procedures and to suggest directions for future innovation and change. Part one presents an overview of the development of children's services and the changing nature of Australian society. The need to acknowledge the diversity within Australian society and to assist children, families, and staff in developing a positive self-identity and empathetic understanding of others is highlighted. Part two deals with the actual processes of planning and programming, starting with the need for staff within settings to identify and reflect on their own philosophy relating to the development, operation, and implementation of an early childhood program. Part three deals with developmentally appropriate practice for young children. Chapters in this section stress the importance of having a sound understanding of growth and development in relation to young children. Underlying this section is the notion that the basis of a developmentally appropriate program is a match between planning and the actual and identified strengths, needs, and interests of the children. A bibliography of approximately 130 items and a subject index are included. (AP)