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By focusing on the early philosophies of learning and the key behavioural, cognitive and social theorists, this book provides a comprehensive overview of children's learning. The authors discuss the key learning theories, highlight the strengths and weaknesses of each approach and encourage reflection on how different approaches impact on the learning environment. The discussion finishes with an exploration of the new sociology of childhood. Examples are drawn from practice to highlight key concepts, and to make vital links between theory and practice.

Theorists considered include:

- Locke

- Rousseau

- Montesori

-Piaget

-Vygotsky

- Bandura

- Bronfenbrenner

- Bruner

Accessibly written, with key questions and recommended reading included, this book is essential reading for all those studying on child development, early childhood and childhood studies courses, and for anyone interested in understanding more about how children learn and think.

Why not also have a look at the companion title How Children Learn to explore how learning is best facilitated in any setting?

Colette Gray is Principal Lecturer in Early Childhood Education at Stranmillis University.

Dr Sean MacBlain is Reader in Child Development and Disability at University College Plymouth, St. Mark & St. John.

'It gives the reader food for thought and questions how we recognise that children have learnt something, and more importantly challenges our own confidence and ability to explain the process they moved through to reach that final point' - Denise Chadwick, Course Leader BA Early Childhood Studies, University of Huddersfield