Early Childhood Studies

For students of Early Childhood Studies, questions are as important as answers. What is childhood? Is childhood the same in all cultures? How do children grow and develop? What space do we make for children in our society? How do adults approach risk and what does this mean for children? Can children's play be planned by adults? The fourth edition of this popular core text for Early Childhood Studies tackles these questions and more. The text explores the why, how and what of studying and working with young children and their families, considering how a range of theories can help us to identify useful questions. Early Childhood Studies is a comprehensive, up-to-date, challenging and accessible core text which covers all aspects of the Early Childhood Studies course. Throughout, key theories and research findings are highlighted and explored to help readers to make links between theory and early years practice. All chapters also include engaging activities to help readers to develop a deeper personal understanding. Chapters cover the important themes of child development, communication, wellbeing, observation, working with parents, inclusive practice, leadership and research. This fourth edition has been fully updated throughout and includes new chapters on children and risk, inclusive learning environments, play and adults' concepts of childhood.