In heated debate about whether childcare damages young children, attachment theory has been seen as 'anti-childcare'. Rolfe rethinks this preception demonstrating instead that understanding attachment is essential to good childcare practice.

Rethinking Attachment offers a thorough explanation of attachment theory and explains how security, autonomy and resilience in young children can be promoted in childcare settings through a sound understanding of attachment principles.

With examples drawn from practice, Rolfe examines the relationships between children and their carers, between parents and carers, and between carers themselves. She also shows how secure attachment relationships with parents and carers influence transitions to childcare, preschool and school.