Foundations of Early Childhood: Principles and Practice

′This text will be an invaluable addition to the reading of students and tutors alike. It has been written thoughtfully for students embarking on university courses that study aspects of early childhood education. The introductory chapters give the reader a sense of the thinking and reflection that is helpful for them at the beginning of their studies and a clear focus on the rights of our youngest children roots the text in a sound pedagogical frame. The later chapters broaden the argument and feel very relevant to the current context in their explorations of the policy and practice of EYFS. I would strongly recommend this text.′
-Jo Albin-Clark, Senior Lecturer in Early Years Education, Edge Hill University

This book introduces all the most important aspects of early years care and education, and will help you develop the key skills needed to study at degree level.

Each chapter introduces major concepts and theories which allow you to explore the foundations of key early childhood issues and apply them in practice. Topics include:

• Children’s rights
• The Early Years curriculum
• How children learn and develop
• Health and well-being

As well as looking at important aspects of study such as:

• How to search primary sources, such as policy documents and journals
• How to use your personal experience in studying
• How to develop critical reading and writing skills

With specific learning features designed for different levels of study, this book will be invaluable to students studying at levels 4 and 5 of early childhood degrees and foundation degrees, with features designed to support students as they make the transition to honours level study.

Digital resources for extra support!

Check out the companion website for additional material including:

• interactive glossary flashcards
• journal tasks
• web links to more handy online resources

Penny Mukherji has been involved in educating students in the field of early childhood for 30 years and during this time has developed a deep understanding of how to support students on their learning journeys. Before her retirement Penny was a Senior Lecturer in Early Childhood Studies at London Metropolitan University, where an important part of her teaching involved supporting both undergraduate and postgraduate students completing their research projects. Penny continues to be actively involved in the university, both as a tutor for students who are distance learners and as a supervisor for students completing their dissertations. With a background in health and psychology, Penny is an established author, with a special interest in the health and well-being of young children.

Louise Dryden is Senior Lecturer in Early Years & Primary Education. Having taught children aged 3-11 for many years in inner-city schools (in London and Birmingham), the major focus of her more recent work has been in lecturing to students on degree programmes related to early years and primary education. Louise spent a number of years lecturing in Further Education where the focus of her teaching was on child development and educational provision for children in pre-school settings through to Key Stage 1. This experience proved extremely valuable in her role as an academic liaison tutor for an early years’ Foundation Degree, working in partnership with staff and students in several Further Education colleges. Teaching in university settings for the past 12 years, her particular areas of specialism relate to linguistic and literary development in children, and study skills for adults.