With 1994 designated the United Nations Year of the Family, young children and their relationship with parents and carers is firmly back on the political agenda. Amongst recent legislation to meet this agenda in Britain is the Children Act 1989. The Act seeks to improve the position and perception of children in society, by stressing the rights of children and the responsibilities that parents and the caring professions have towards them.

Working Together For Young Children addresses the central issues facing young children and their families in the light of this new social and political climate. The contributors - experienced in the fields of health, education, social and voluntary services - provide information, research evidence and ideas about practice in the light of recent legislative reform. Emphasising the need for continuity, comprehensiveness and collaboration at all levels of care provision, different chapters explore the services directed at children `in need' as well as children in general.