Rhiannon Packer, Senior Lecturer, University of South Wales, UK
The layout of the book is comprehensive and the guidance on how to use the book is very clear and easy to follow.
Each chapter guides the reader step by step with each section clearly explained and well referenced. The reading list at the end of each chapter provides an opportunity for further exploration.
The activities presented at different stages throughout the chapters provoke much food for thought and as a lecturer, are activities that could be used within the teaching environment.
Arguments are well presented and include guidance on how the student could consider presenting arguments or critically analyse information
Joy Chalke, Course Leader Early Childhood Studies, University of Portsmouth, UK
It covers a wide range of topics that we have units of study related to . It is easily accessible with diagrams, pictures and research and tasks that break up the text so therefore is accessible for first years who have to develop the skills of reading at length. It is well written and easy to read.
Deborah Albon, Senior Lecturer in Early Childhood Studies, London Metropolitan University, UK
Good overview of a range of models of child development especially
It is clearly set out and attractive to use and I think this is especially important at level 4 - the presentation, whilst attractive, does include thinking through of complex topics
Mary Dyer, Senior Lecturer in Early Years, University of Huddersfield, UK
[Strengths are its] ...breadth of subject coverage which includes aspects of policy and practice, professional development, and research and theory concerning children's early holistic development. The reflective exercises and examples are good talking/thinking points for students at all levels.
'The second edition of the text Early Childhood Studies retains many of the excellent features which has made it an essential text for students studying on early childhood studies degree courses. The addition of two new chapters on Play and Safeguarding Children are welcome additions to the original content, and the refreshing of the existing chapters has ensured that the new text is reflective of the many and significant changes which have occurred in the period since the book was first published. Sources, research and terminology have been updated to reflect the growing trends and changes in the sector; thus, providing an exemplary model for students to follow as they commence their own journeys into study. I would highly recommend this text to my students studying on the BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies degree.' - Alison Riley, Bishop Grosseteste University'
'Early Childhood Studies is an accessible book that provides students with a comprehensive and detailed discussion of Early Childhood theory, philosophy, policy and practice. Reflective tasks are built into the chapters so that students can apply their own learning in relevant and thought provoking ways. Students are also supported to develop valuable study- and research skills and encouraged to refine their knowledge of specialist terminology. This book will be a valuable resource for any student wishing to study Early Childhood Studies.'- Dr Kate Bacon, Senior Lecturer, University of Central Lancashire
