Critical Years

Tim Gully worked for the Probation Service, NSPCC and in Social Work for 25 years, mostly with dangerous offenders and in child protection, before moving in to higher education. He has taught both social work and early childhood studies and currently teaches at the University of Chichester. His research interests include the making of children from conception to birth, risk society, social pedagogy and child protection in early years. Working with both victims and abusers, he believes that it is essential to see situations holistically so that we can better, understand, intervene and protect children. Internationalism is at the core of his teaching and research and he has been able to teach in Denmark, Romania and Germany, bringing ideas back to include in his teaching in the UK.

A very easy and interesting read with the chapters also useful as stand- alone reading, with the critical reflection sections enabling students to consider the wider aspects of child development and those who work with young children etc. This textbook should also appeal to a wider audience such as local authorities training centres. - Nieca Boynton, Hull UniversityI enjoyed reading this book. Very useful information with related case studies and links to theories. Gives a clear view on stages of development with supported references. Very useful book for Early Years practitioners studying level 4-5 easy to read and accessible. - Mehjabeen Shaukat, Tameside CollegeThis book is easy to read, informative and provides clear guidance for students on how children. I like the case studies and the simple signposts to support and encourage students how to critically reflect. - Denise Nannetti, North Hertfordshire College

• Introduction, Fetal Development, The Physical Child, The Psychological Child, The Social Child, The Parented Child, Children with special Needs, Abuse and Significant Harm, Conclusion, Index