Child Development for Early Years Students and Practitioners

This guide is for students of degrees and foundation degrees in Early Years, Early Childhood Studies, and related disciplines, and for early years practitioners. It introduces the context of child development, develops an understanding of development, explores the biological/social debate, examines factors affecting development, and includes a chapter on reflective practice. It is updated in line with the new EYFS and the updated Development Matters, includes child development learning from 0-8, and includes up-to-date guidance on assessment processes in the Early Years.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 280 pages
Publication date: 22 July 2022
Publisher: SAGE Publications Ltd

This comprehensive guide to child development is designed for students pursuing degrees and foundation degrees in Early Years, Early Childhood Studies, and related disciplines, as well as early years practitioners. It serves as a valuable resource for understanding the context of child development and equipping practitioners with the knowledge and skills to support this crucial stage of growth.

The guide begins by introducing the fundamental principles of child development, including the biological and social perspectives, and the importance of holistic development. It explores the various factors that influence development, such as genetics, environment, and parenting styles, and includes a comprehensive chapter on reflective practice, essential for practitioners working with children.

Recognizing the complexity of children's development, the guide argues that it is not always a linear and straightforward progression. It acknowledges that children undergo different stages and phases, and that their development can be influenced by a wide range of factors. This edition of the guide has been updated in line with the new Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and the updated Development Matters framework, ensuring that it remains current and relevant to practitioners.

Furthermore, the guide expands its coverage to include child development learning from 0-8 years, reflecting the growing emphasis on early childhood education and care. It provides up-to-date guidance on assessment processes in the Early Years, helping practitioners to effectively evaluate and track children's progress. Additionally, a new section has been included with key knowledge on well-known theories of child development, providing practitioners with a deeper understanding of the developmental stages and the factors that contribute to them.

In conclusion, this accessible guide to child development is an essential resource for students, practitioners, and anyone interested in understanding the complex process of child growth and development. It offers a comprehensive and up-to-date perspective on the field, equipping practitioners with the knowledge and skills to support children's learning and well-being throughout their early years.

Weight: 494g
Dimension: 246 x 171 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529792874
Edition number: 5 Revised edition