Early Childhood Education
History, Philosophy and Experience
- Cathy Nutbrown - University of Sheffield, UK
- Peter Clough - University of Brighton, UK
This accessible introduction to the history of early childhood education emphasises the role of history and philosophy in early childhood practice today. Firmly grounded in current policy from across the UK, the text features a series of imagined conversations with key figures and pioneers, which exemplify various philosophical positions in early childhood. This second edition has been fully updated and revised in line with recent policy changes, and contains new and updated biographies of key pioneers as well as three brand new conversations with historical figures.
The book is useful for a range of students of Early Childhood Education or History of Education, from first year undergraduates to PhD students. It will also be incredibly valuable to Early Years trainee teachers, practitioners and policy makers.
‘This book is an essential read for all those studying and working in the early years. It does indeed give a rootedness to our work and allows us to ponder. Most importantly it reminds us about the importance of the early years and our responsibility to continually advocate for the youngest children.’
'This unique text helps readers craft strong professional identities, unambiguous educational philosophies and conviction in their practice. The authors encourage reflexive and situated interpretations of lessons from the long history of early education; perceptive and respectful responses to signals young children give adults about their roles; and a weather eye to the policy telescope. Like a compass, this book provides points of reference for new pioneers to steer a course towards principled early years education, now and for the future.'
As ever with Cathy's books an insparational book that allows early childhood to be understood by all undergraduates. The students have started to apply Cathy's knowledge to their work. Good book to adotpted for any undergraduate.
This book has lots of information on the history of ECE, including classic and contemporary influential theorists. I will recommend this book to students who wish to examine how the history of ECE has shaped today’s practice.
Perfect book for my students who have very little time to think, let alone learn, how the theoretical underpinnings relate to practice. Great book for EYs professional trainees.
The book gives a very good overview of the history of early childhood education. Moreover, the philosophical origin of educational science is considered as well.
The British centered view on education history is understandable - I will need to provide extra information for my German students in this case.
This is great book for those who are interested in the foundations of early childhood. It can be an ideal textbook for students and tutors in the field and it is strongly recommended for university courses. It introduces all the most important aspects of early years care and education, and will help you develop the key skills needed to study at degree level. Importantly, it goes beyond theory and puts theoretical aspects and principles of early childhood into practice.
A balance of facts and an interesting reflection on their place in todays early years.
Personally I enjoyed the concept of interviewing past theorists for their opinions on Early Years Education today. Students also seemed to find this concept made theory understandable and relatable to Early Years today
The book is informative and does exactly what it says on the tin. It is a straightforward introduction to the history of early childhood education and emphasises the role of history and philosophy in early childhood practice today. It will be a good book for first year students on Childhood Studies and Early Years degree courses.
