Understanding Child Development

Designed for students in early childhood education teacher preparation programs, Understanding Child Development gives a practical understanding of the young child from the prenatal period through age eight. It introduces the unique qualities of the young child as distinguished from older children and demonstrates how to work with young children in ways that correspond with their developmental level and social and cultural environment. Related to the child's development are current issues such as developmentally appropriate practice, development of early stages of reading, the role of technology in children's lives, the importance of brain development, and the factors relevant to children with special needs. These topics connect the text's content directly to problems adults will face when working with young children. Each section of the book contains critical social and cultural factors related to young children's development, with much new information added in these areas, including socio-cultural aspects of family, school, and community, and material on learning theories and diverse cultures. Up-to-date critical developmental research and theory support the text. It includes helpful review questions, further reading, examples, observation checklists, and references to aid in the student's learning.