FOOD AND NUTRITION IN THE EARLY YEARS. By Carolyn Childs. Hodder amp; Stoughton pound;12.99.

HELPING YOUNG CHILDREN WITH MATHS. By Sara Williams and Susan Goodman. Hodder amp; Stoughton pound;9.99.

UNDERSTANDING CHILDREN’S LANGUAGE AND LITERACY. By Penny Mukherji and Teresa O’Dea Series editors: Christine Hobart and Jill Frankel. Nelson Thornes pound;14.

BABY AND CHILD HEALTH. By Carolyn Meggitt. Heinemann pound;12.99.

Many tutors on child care courses will be encouraging their students to use a range of research in their studies. They will also be looking for inspiration to make their tutorials interesting and accessible. We are lucky to have a wide range of child care books for Level 3 child care courses such as CACHE diploma in child care and education, NVQ Level 3 and the BTEC. Many of the books discussed here also contain useful information for Level 2 courses such as CACHE certificate in child care and education and the NVQ Level 2, and will raise awareness of child care standards among early-years practitioners and those training alongside them.

The authors of Good Practice in Child Safety have a wealth of experience in this field. The clearly headed chapters and informative text will support students writing assignments and offer a guide for good practice. The chapter on safer environments, for example, includes clear lists for outdoor and indoor play and invaluable guidelines for nannies.

The foreword of Food and Nutrition in the Early Years makes the point that eating, as well as being fundamental to living, is also associated with strong feelings and patterns of behaviour which start from birth. The clear style and practical cooking suggestions make this an excellent resource for Level 3 students. The chapter on social food and children’s eating looks at the provision of diets in a wide variety of settings and discusses in some depth the influence of the social context of children’s eating.

For those who are reluctant mathematicians, Helping Young Children with Maths puts maths firmly into the context of children’s everyday lives. The range of practical ideas will be useful for tutors, students and practitioners. The text is easily accessible suggesting activities which highlight the importance of a practical and enjoyable approach to mathematical learning. The appendix lists a variety of useful publications and organisations. This is an excellent book for those lacking confidence in maths or seeking new inspiration.

Understanding Children’s Language and Literacy in the same series has a refreshing practical approach. Features such as definition boxes and regular “key terms” at the end of each chapter are particularly helpful.

Finally, Baby and Child Health in the Heinemann child care series presents child health needs in the context of current early years care and education. The emphasis is on a holistic approach, with an effective use of attractive photographs, informative diagrams and clear headings. The chapter on “Keeping Children Healthy” is particularly successful.