Early Childhood Studies

Jane Johnston was a Reader in Education at Bishop Grosseteste University, Lincoln, UK, until her retirement in 2013.Lindy Nahmad-Williams is a Senior Lecturer in Education Studies and Education with Psychology and Counselling at Sheffield Hallam University.Ruby Oates was Head of Childhood Studies at the University of Derby until 2016; she currently works in the University’s Centre for Education, Research and Innovation.Val Wood was a Senior Lecturer and Programme Leader for Early Childhood Studies at the University of Derby until 2016.

• Part 1 History and philosophy of early childhood studies 1. Theories and theorists 2. Developing your own philosophy Part 2 Early years development 3. Physical development 4. Cognitive development 5. Language development 6. Emotional and moral development 7. Social development Part 3 Early childhood 8. Families, homes and childhood 9. Early education 10. Play 11. Special educational needs and inclusion: policy and practice 12. Safeguarding children Part 4 Practitioners in early childhood 13. The early years professional 14. Reflective practice 15. Working together 16. Leadership and management of early years settings

Rhiannon Packer, Senior Lecturer, University of South Wales, UKThe layout of the book is comprehensive and the guidance on how to use the book is very clear and easy to follow. Each chapter guides the reader step by step with each section clearly explained and well referenced. The reading list at the end of each chapter provides an opportunity for further exploration.The activities presented at different stages throughout the chapters provoke much food for thought and as a lecturer, are activities that could be used within the teaching environment.Arguments are well presented and include guidance on how the student could consider presenting arguments or critically analyse informationJoy Chalke, Course Leader Early Childhood Studies, University of Portsmouth, UKIt covers a wide range of topics that we have units of study related to . It is easily accessible with diagrams, pictures and research and tasks that break up the text so therefore is accessible for first years who have to develop the skills of reading at length. It is well written and easy to read. Deborah Albon, Senior Lecturer in Early Childhood Studies, London Metropolitan University, UKGood overview of a range of models of child development especiallyIt is clearly set out and attractive to use and I think this is especially important at level 4 – the presentation, whilst attractive, does include thinking through of complex topicsMary Dyer, Senior Lecturer in Early Years, University of Huddersfield, UK[Strengths are its] …breadth of subject coverage which includes aspects of policy and practice, professional development, and research and theory concerning children’s early holistic development. The reflective exercises and examples are good talking/thinking points for students at all levels.