The knowledge base that underpins child and youth care work is re-examined through the device of musical metaphor, introducing six voices that impact on responsive practices with children, young people, and their families. The "Soul" of child and youth care is located in guarantees of physical safety and security and attending to bodily comforts, routines, and preferences. "Rhythms" of proactive caring build through the unique developmental patterns presented by each child or young person cared for at home or away from home. The "Blues" of care are recorded in each social history and care order, highlighting stark emotions around significant life events, personal and cultural safety, risk-taking, and acting out, self-mutilation or escape. Six comparative policy themes are highlighted, voicing challenges for child and youth services over the next decade. (Contains 6 notes.)