Beginning Essentials in Early Childhood Education is a foundational textbook designed for early childhood students. It provides a clear introduction to the field and its various issues, focusing on the child, age range, the teacher's role, and the educational environment. The text is divided into four main sections that answer crucial questions: What is the Field? Who is the Child? Who is the Teacher? and What is Being Taught? Each section emphasizes essential aspects of early childhood education, multiculturalism, and developmentally appropriate practices. Readers will find sidebars titled Our Diverse World that address issues of diversity, including gender, race, ability, language, and family patterns relevant to teaching.

The book also features engaging elements like What Do You Think boxes, encouraging readers to connect personally to the content. A dedicated chapter discusses the history and current issues in the field, connecting readers to past events while considering future trends. Richly organized material is supplemented with various sidebars, photographs, activities, and technology insights, guiding both new and experienced teachers through effective teaching methods. The included CD offers video clips of children at different developmental stages in various early childhood settings, allowing students and instructors to reflect and engage in personal and professional growth. The technology tie-in boxes throughout the book help connect the text content to these video segments, enhancing the learning experience.