The Student Practitioner in Early Childhood Studies ─ An Essential Guide to Working With Children

"The Student-Practitioner in Early Childhood Studies: An essential guide to working with children provides accessible support and guidance for Early Childhood Studies students in higher education who may have little, if any, experience of relating to young children in the Early Years Foundation Stage and Key Stage One.With useful chapter summaries, activities and reflection points to help readers track their academic journey, this text draws on the experiences of students on the degree programme for the benefit of students new to practice. It will:prepare students for the challenges of practiceprovide a synthesis of academic knowledge and practice skillsdevelop student's critically reflective thinking and understanding relational pedagogy and the needs of young childrenprovide the emerging student-practitioner in higher education with knowledge, skills, understnading and confidence to relate effectively with young children and adults in settingsFully supporting student's practice experience and developement of their critical thinking, this helpful book synthesises theory and practice in an applied and critical manner. The authors cover a range of themes including critical reflection, relational pedagogy, confidence building, communication skills, personal and professional development and employability alongside academic writing and research skills. This textbook is essential reading for students on all Early Childhood degree programmes"--

Ruby Oates is an assistant subject head, overseeing two undergraduate degrees, Early Childhood Studies and Education Studies, at the University of Derby, UK.

Christine Hey is a senior lecturer on the BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies Programme at the University of Derby, UK, and an Early Years teacher.