This classic book, which has been published in many languages, describes some of the important aspects of the development of infants and young children from birth to school age. It is illustrated by vignettes of scenes between parents and children and it touches on many of the questions and feelings evoked by the intense emotional relationship between parents and children. Originally published in 1967, the book has not dated in its essential humanity, perceptiveness and ease of expression. Unlike other accounts it was not intended to offer advice but to enable parents to observe and think about their children as individuals in an interested and non-judgemental way. The book takes into account matters that were hardly acknowledged at the time, such as sexuality, death, and parental divorce or separation. This edition includes a preface by Margaret Rustin.