On Being and Well-Being in Infant/Toddler Care and Education

"With its real-life stories and invitations for reflection and conversation, this book is an ideal professional development resource for pre- and in-service birth-to-age-three professionals. The author shares lived-experiences of being in baby rooms as a researcher with infants, toddlers, and adults over extended periods of time in four distinctly different rooms, inspiring personal reflection, and provocations for meaningful collegial discussions. McMullen frames each life story around elements of well-being and asks readers to consider whether and how environmental and relational factors supported or hindered the physical, psychological, and emotional well-being of the characters portrayed. The author encourages readers to see themselves in the life stories, to consider how they may have acted in the circumstances described, and to deliberate on their own practices and beliefs. The author's tone is empathetic and respectful, and reveals her intention to elevate, celebrate, and honor those who spend their days in infant toddler care and education, including the children, their families, and their professional care teachers. Finally, the author stresses the critical role all adults in society play in the lives of our youngest citizens, supporting them in the here-and-now and as they grow, reminding us their well-being is "in our hands""--