The social, legal and practice context for protecting and safeguarding children

This chapter explicates important themes in the development of child protection legislation. It begins by learning further from the history of a small number of child tragedies that help to illustrate how understanding of child protection as a social and relational phenomenon. The importance of trans-national conventions is then highlighted. Discussion consequently moves to brief consideration of examples of abusive practices by early years practitioners before consideration is given to the prevalence of child abuse for young children. The subsequent duties and responsibilities placed on early years practitioners by legislation and the conditions necessary for effective practice with parents and carers are covered.