Table of Contents

Acknowledgements
Introduction
1. An Overview of Theories and Practice in the Early Years'
2. Jean-Jacques Rousseau (1712-1778)
3. Friedrich Froebel (1782-1852)
4. Rachel McMillan (1859-1917) and Margaret McMillan (1860-1931)
5. Sigmund Freud (1956-1939)
6. John Bowlby (1907-1990)
7. Jean Piaget (1896 - 1980)
8. Lev Vygotsky (1896-1934)
9. Jerome Bruner (1915- )
10. Colwyn Trevarthen (1931- )
11. Urie Bronfenbrenner (1917-2005)
12. Neuroscience in the Early Years'
13. Post-modern Perspectives in Early Years' Provision
14. Bringing Theory to Life with Action Research
15. Using the Lessons from the Past in the Present
Glossary
Bibliography
Index

Promotional Information

A comprehensive guide to early child development theories and concepts, drawing together classic and contemporary theory with best practice.

About the Author

Mine Conkbayir is currently undertaking a PhD in early childhood education and neuroscience. She is a lecturer and training director for the Membership Body, National Early Years Trainers and Consultants (NEyTCO). She is the author of Early Childhood and Neuroscience: Theory, Research and Implications for Practice (Bloomsbury, 2017).

Christine Pascal is Director of the Centre for Research in Early Childhood, UK, which undertakes local, national and international research, training and consultancy work for all those involved in early childhood education and care. She is also President of the European Early Childhood Education Research Association.

Reviews

This book presents a summary of a selection of theories related to early child development (0–3 years old approximately), discusses each theory and then outlines the relation of the theory to practice … By bringing to the reader an understanding of the theories underpinning psychological practice in this field, it aims to ensure high quality, informed responses to the needs of children, their families and communities … This interesting and very readable book is likely to be of most interest to those focusing their work on the very early years of childhood, who are seeking a short overview of some of the influential theories in the field and who are also interested in understanding, questioning and ensuring ongoing enhancement of their own practice.
*The Australian Educational and Developmental Psychologist*

This book is an invaluable gathering together of some of the important theories and contemporary issues which influence early childhood practice today. The authors have achieved their wish to encourage the reader in ‘being reflective and understanding theories’... I wish that I could have had this book as a resource when I was first learning about these theories.
*Tina Bruce CBE, Honorary Professor of Early Childhood Studies, University of Roehampton, UK, and Trustee of The Froebel Trust, UK*

Mine Conkbayir and Chris Pascal have taken a thought-provoking approach to introducing ten of the major theorists of early childhood to practitioners interested in how theory and practice interrelate... Anyone who reads this book whether they are a student or experienced practitioner cannot fail to be provoked and inspired to carry on improving practice for the benefit of children and families.
*Helen Moylett, Education Consultant and President of the British Association of Early Childhood Education (Early Education), UK*

An easy to understand text while still providing a good level of information.
*Ruth Davies, Glyndwr University, UK*