A landmark publication in the field, this state of the art reference work, with contributions from leading thinkers across a range of disciplines, is an essential guide to the study of children and childhood, and sets out future research agendas for the subject.

This fully updated new edition offers a comprehensive, accessible, yet rigorous introduction to the study of Early Childhood that will will add value to any Early Childhood Studies course at both foundation and degree level. Addressing both care and education in the Early Years, the book considers a range of multi-disciplinary aspects of Early Childhood; including health, social, educational, psychological and sociological perspectives. Early Childhood Studies engages the reader by providing real-world examples that underpin theoretical perspectives and bring examples to life, while encouraging practitioners to engage in reflective practice by considering their own similar experiences. Key features include: Engaging activities and case studies that bring theory to life Cutting-edge research Practical tasks and advice with points for further reading End of chapter summaries, Reflective Tasks and Study Skills boxes in each chapter Full colour illustrations throughout This core introductory textbook is an indispensable resource for Early Years’ students and professionals, whatever their level of expertise or experience.

This popular and bestselling textbook provides an introduction to the field of childhood studies and offers a broad-based, comprehensive and accessible resource which brings together key themes in the area of childhood studies to provide a timely and scholarly introduction. This new collection includes all the key themes of debate and interest and each chapter is written by an expert in a specific area of childhood studies and many chapters are authored by leading figures in their field. The new third edition builds on the success of earlier editions, maintaining chapters of enduring value while incorporating some fresh new chapters on integrated working with children; childhood sexualisation; and child soldiers. Hence the book remains intellectually robust, scholarly and confident in its academic approach, a feature that distinguishes the title from many of its competitors. The new edition also introduces additional pedagogy with interactive activities, annotated suggestions for further reading, and end-of-chapter bullet point summaries. An Introduction to Childhood Studies 3E is invaluable reading for students, lecturers and practitioners from a range of professional and academic interests and particularly for those studying courses in Childhood Studies and Early Childhood Studies. Contributors: David Buckingham, Diana Gittins, Chris Jenks, Glenda MacNaughton, Heather Montgomery, Jane Read, Wendy Stainton Rogers, Mats Utas, Valerie Walkerdine, Martin Woodhead

"Arranged alphabetically, core ideas about ′Agency′ and ′Development′ through to ′Socialisation′ and ′Youth′ are explained in straightforward language, with a concise introduction to key theoretical debates, as well as up to date references." - Martin Woodhead, The Open University "A challenging text that is recommended for all levels of the BA in Childhood Studies programme. The short, focussed chapters provide students with a comprehensive overview of a topic which they can then research in further depth." - Sharron Galley, Centre for Childhood Studies, Stockport College "This book gives a fantastic first look at many key concepts which are new to students in a way that is easily approachable and understandable. A great place to start further studies." - Kathryn Peckham, Chichester University This book has already proved itself as a market leader in Childhood Studies. All of the strengths of the First Edition have been retained. The book is comprehensive and judged with the needs of students in mind. It is a model of clarity and precision and has been acknowledged as such in reviews and course feedback. The new edition thoroughly revises old entries and adds new ones. The book is the most accessible, relevant student introduction to this expanding, interdisciplinary field. It is an indispensable teaching text and an ideal prompt for researchers.

"This thoughtful book provides expert overviews of historical, sociological, psychological, cultural, legal and rights-informed approaches to childhood. Through these well written, readable chapters, students will be engaged with important debates in childhood studies, and led towards many ideas and problems for further investigation. This second edition includes new chapters arguing strongly for interdisciplinarity and for measured responses to the current 'crisis' in UK childhoods." Berry Mayall, Institute of Education, University of London, UK An Introduction to Childhood Studies offers a wide-ranging and thought-provoking approach to the study of childhood, providing an important contribution to this burgeoning area of research and teaching. It brings together key themes in the area of Childhood Studies, providing a comprehensive and accessible introduction for students and practitioners, helping to answer questions such as: What is childhood and how can it be studied and understood? How is the idea of childhood shaped by the society we live in? The contributors - who are leading figures in their fields - examine childhood from historical, socio-cultural and policy perspectives. They explore aspects such as the construction of childhood, children's literature, childhood in the digital age and children's rights. Revised and updated throughout, the new edition includes: An expanded introductory chapter - Childhood Studies: past, present, future A new chapter on children's rights and educational provision A new concluding chapter - The future of childhood Revised and updated chapters Further reading suggestions for each chapter An Introduction to Childhood Studies is a key text for students on courses in childhood studies, child psychology, social policy and the sociology of youth and childhood.

This core introductory textbook offers an accessible yet rigorous approach to Early Childhood issues, addressing both Care and Education in the Early Years. It presents a multi-disciplinary perspective and will add value to any Early Childhood Studies course at both foundation and degree level. This text engages the reader by providing real-world examples that underpin theoretical perspectives and bring examples to life, whilst providing the student with an opportunity to reflect on their own similar experiences. The book is supported with a range of useful supplementary materials including an exciting companion website package.

Early Childhood Studies: A Social Science Perspective explores key issues in early childhood studies from a variety of social science disciplines, including psychology, sociology, social policy and education. Each chapter considers a different social science discipline, identifying, analysing and critically assessing how that particular discipline enriches early years provision and research.User-friendly student features are included throughout, including:- Icebreakers introduce the main chapter themes- Objectives help readers to develop cognitive skills, moving from identifying to analysing to critically assessing - Formative activities encourage practical application of the content - Case-studies ground theory in practice - Research activities support those looking to take their understanding further - Self-assessment questions allow readers to test their knowledge- Further reading references and web links provide ideas for further exploration An essential course companion for all Early Childhood Studies undergraduate students.