Supporting Science, Design and Technology in the Early Years

* How do young children learn science, design and technology?

* How can we support young children and help them to develop scientific, design and technology skills?

This practical and accessible text answers these questions and provides guidance for adults working with young children in a variety of formal and informal settings. Concrete advice is given to show how parents, carers, teachers and other professionals can provide a rich learning environment and support children in this important area of the curriculum. The differing needs of both adults and children are recognized and a variety of stimulating activities is illustrated. A clear and helpful discussion of a developmental framework enables readers to strengthen their own practice and understanding. The book will be of value to all early childhood professionals as well as being of great interest to parents and carers.

John Siraj-Blatchford is a Senior Lecturer at Homerton College, Cambridge. He has extensive experience in teaching science and design and technology education and in teaching and supervising research in the early years. He has also conducted a number of research projects of his own. He is the author of numerous academic papers and articles, and several books.

Iain MacLeod-Brudenell has taught in all phases of education, and had extensive experience of working with early years professionals through INSET and advisory work. His most recent experiences have been in teacher education; managing a PGCE course; teaching early years design and technology. He is currently programme leader for the BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies course at the University of Derby. Iain has four grown up children and is now a proud grandfather.