An Introduction to Early Childhood

Tim Waller is Editor of this book, and Professor of Child and Family Studies at Anglia Ruskin University. The majority of the contributors are based at the University of Northampton, and this is very much a team book.  Geraldine Davis< is a Principal Lecturer and Director of the Doctorate in Education at Anglia Ruskin University.  She has worked in higher education for 14 years, following work as a teacher in schools, colleges and within the health sector.  She led the Masters degree in Early Years Professional Practice between 2010 and 2015.  Geraldine led a funded research project to explore the link between leadership in the early childhood workforce and outcomes for children from 2010 – 2013.  She co-edited the third edition of ‘An Introduction to Early Childhood’ with Professor Tim Waller in 2014 and wrote the chapter ‘Leadership and Change Management in Early Childhood’.

This revised edition introduces readers to a wide range of contemporary issues in early childhood, issues that are fundamental for working respectfully with young children. Each chapter has been skilfully constructed with the professional in mind, as accessible and current information is provided, overviews of research studies, useful web-links, podcast options, and thought-provoking case studies all assist with demystifying each topic.  What I really like about this book is how it challenges us to think differently about children in an adult-centred society, and it equips readers with ways to better understand children’s lifeworlds.

• PART ONE: HISTORY AND THEORIES OF CHILDHOODA History of Childhood: Adult Constructs and Children′s Agency - Michael WynessModern Childhoods: Contemporary Theories and Children′s Lives - Tim WallerInternational Perspectives - Libby Lee-Hammond with Tim WallerPART TWO: INCLUSION AND DIVERSITYChildren′s Rights to Participation - Gill HandleyUnderstanding Diversity - Prospera TedamInclusive Practice for Children with Special Educational Needs (SEN) - Christine Hickman and Kyffin JonesPART THREE: LEARNING AND PLAYPlay and Creativity - Paulette LuffOutdoor Play and Learning - Helen Tovey and Tim WallerChildren and Media - Jane O′ConnorPART FOUR: HEALTH, WELLBEING AND PROTECTIONChild Health - Sharon Smith and Tania HartWellbeing - Jane WatersProtecting and Safeguarding Children - Celia DoyleWorking with Families - Eunice Lumsden and Celia DoylePART FIVE: PROFESSIONAL WORKINGProfessional Work in Early Childhood - Denise HeveyJoined-up Thinking in Practice: An Exploration of Professional Collaboration - Eunice LumsdenLeadership and Change Management in Early Childhood - Geraldine DavisPART SIX: RESEARCH AND REFLECTIONResearching Young Children′s Worlds - Jane MurrayReflective Practice - Caroline Jones