Child psychology, also called child development, the study of the psychological processes of children and, specifically, how these processes differ from those of adults, how they develop from birth to the end of adolescence, and how and why they differ from one child to the next. In the earliest years, children are "completely dependent on the care of others." Therefore, they develop a "social relationship" with their care givers and, later, with family members. During their preschool years (3-5), they "enlarge their social horizons" to include people outside the family. Through play a child reaches higher levels of cognitive development.In all cultures, middle childhood is a time for developing ‘skills that will be needed in their society.’ Written in a clear and friendly style, this book explores the factors within child psychology that are important when studying the development of children. This book is an invaluable resource for students studying Child Care and Psychology in undergraduate and graduate level.
