Little Brains Matter: A Practical Guide to Brain Development and Neuroscience in Early Childhood

Little Brains Matter is an accessible guide to neuroscience for early childhood development, explaining terminology, language, and the role of adults as "brain builders." It explores how poverty, adversity, social, emotional, and mental health influence children's development, the importance of play, and the interweaving of disciplines such as psychology and anthropology. The book offers case studies and reflective practices to encourage readers to consider their own practice and develop their understanding of important topics.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 14 March 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Neuroscience is a complex field that can be intimidating to those who are not familiar with its terminology and language. This accessible guide aims to demystify neuroscience and increase the knowledge, skills, and confidence of anyone interested in brain development in early childhood. The book is organized into practical and reflective chapters that highlight the multi-faceted role of adults as "brain builders." It encourages readers to consider how the environment, play, and interactions are crucially interlinked and how they can support children's brain development.

The book explores cutting-edge science in an accessible way, examining how poverty, adversity, social, emotional, and mental health all influence the developing child. It also delves into the science behind play, why it is so important for young children, and how ideas from different disciplines such as psychology and anthropology can be interwoven with neuroscience. Adult interaction with children, both as practitioners and parents or carers, is crucial for the developing brain, and the book emphasizes the importance of reflective practice to encourage readers to consider their actions and develop their understanding of important topics raised in the book.

Throughout the guide, there are wealth of case studies and reflective practices that weave throughout, encouraging readers to pause and consider their own practice. Little Brains Matter will be essential reading for anyone interested in early childhood development, providing a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the field.

Weight: 412g
Dimension: 153 x 216 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367724474