An Introduction to Early Childhood Studies

This is a comprehensive, thought-provoking book which presents the views of a wide range of expert contributors. It provides sound overviews of the fundamental theoretical perspectives which underpin early childhood studies, but also delivers insights and observations about 21st century issues such as globalisation and sustainability. Alongside the theoretical contexts there is also recognition of the role of the practitioner and the challenges and opportunities associated with that.This range and diversity of content makes the book an excellent choice for students on undergraduate and postgraduate courses who are looking for content that will develop their knowledge and understanding and promote their ability to engage critically with relevant contemporary issues. -- Jane Dorrian

This outstanding book illustrates effectively the multi-disciplinarity of the field of Early Childhood Studies. Capturing a breadth of fundamental themes through a scholarly and systematic approach, the chapters are well-structured and provide rich sources of information. The authors of the book make the concepts, theories, implications to policy and practice approachable and comprehensive, emphasising local and global trends.

This book makes a unique contribution to Early Childhood Studies and readers are encouraged to find out about contemporary issues through political, social, psychological and pedagogical perspectives. I will be recommending this book to students on Early Childhood programmes.

-- Zoi Nikiforidou
This is the fourth edition of this excellent book. It would make perfect reading for any early childhood studies student, whether at degree level, or those beginning on an apprenticeship keen to improve their knowledge and understanding - it could well prove a valuable addition to your staff room, to be used for staff reflection, for example. -- Neil Henty
Fantastic textbook that allows both early childhood and primary students access to the world of young children and the various concepts that surround their learning and development -- Dr Chelle Davison * drupal *
A clearly written and straight-forward text to introduce students to various elements of child development in preparation for careers in early years and teaching -- Miss Louise Stafford * drupal *
This publication is a vital source for students to explore, to support various modules on higher education programmes. Different perceptions of children’s development are discussed, which enables students to develop their understanding of how children learn. Highly recommended for students to purchase. -- Miss Tracey Canham * drupal *
This book has been an invaluable resource in all its editions. The range of subjects it covers is comprehensive which means it can be used across a number of modules and means it can be confidently recommended to students as something worth purchasing. It is informative and accessible as well as being sufficiently critical for this level.
-- Mrs Fiona Corby * drupal *
A well presented text book relevant to the course being delivered at higher level. relevant to many areas of the course delivery and useful tool to have. -- Mrs pamela canning * drupal *
An accessible text which covers a wide range of contemporary issues relevant to students of Early Childhood Studies -- Mrs Suzi Smale * drupal *
Good variety of subjects covered and good for all levels of study in the area. -- Ms Carol Lloyd * drupal *
This wide ranging book is a compendium of information and key theories in the field of Early Childhood Studies. It is an accessible entry-level text for undergraduates, which outlines essential features of Early Childhood Studies. Each chapter is by neccessity very short, as this book seeks to cover a lot of ground. Helpful as a starting place for many key ideas and ways of thinking. -- Ms Ruth Hunt * drupal *