Written by one of the leading experts on assessment, the new edition of this book offers a clear explanation of the role of assessment in the revised Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), and step-by-step guidance for those working with children from birth to five on making and recording observations in practice. Updated throughout, the second edition now features: (1) A brand new chapter on the History of the Baseline Assessment Policy; (2) A companion website including access to SAGE journal articles, child observation videos and examples of completed assessments; and (3) Detailed guidance on the new Integrated Health and Education check at age two. This book continues to help students and practitioners develop an evidence-based understanding of assessment and an appreciation of what constitutes effective assessment in early years settings. Chapters include: (1) Introduction -- Reclaiming Assessment; (2) Why is Assessment Important?; (3) What are the Purposes of Assessment?; (4) Significances and Signifiers of Child Development; (5) The Intuitive Professional; (6) Establishing Eight Principles for Effective Early Years Assessment; (7) Assessment in Practice; (8) Assessment in the Early Years Foundation Stage; (9) The 2-Year-Old Progress Check; (10) The Early Years Foundation Stage Profile; and (11) The Baseline Assessment 2015 Onwards.