The Sociology of Early Childhood
Critical Perspectives
- Norman Gabriel - University of Essex, UK
The Sociology of Early Childhood is a theoretically and historically grounded examination of young children’s experiences in contemporary society.
Arguing that a sociology of early childhood must bring together and integrate different disciplines, this book:
- synthesises different sociological perspectives on childhood as well as incorporating multi-disciplinary research findings on the lives of young children
- explains key theoretical concepts in early childhood studies such as investment, early intervention, professional power and discourse
- examines the importance of play, memory and place
- evaluates long term parenting trends
- uses illustrative examples and case studies, discussion questions and annotated further reading to engage and stimulate readers.
Invigorating and thought provoking, this is an invaluable read for advanced undergraduates and postgraduate students looking for a more nuanced and progressive understanding of childhood.
This book is a valuable addition to Early Childhood Studies, it plays an important part in developing our students' sociological perspectives on childhood; an important component of this multi-disciplinary degree.
A very welcome addition to the Childhood Studies literature, The Sociology of Early Childhood covers the key issues and subject areas essential for developing a critical and comprehensive knowledge of the field. Thoughtfully structured and clearly written, Gabriel provides a compelling discussion of ideas and concepts in ways accessible to an undergraduate audience. This is a 'must-have' text for all interested in understanding modern childhoods.
In this book, Norman Gabriel provides an insightful, relational approach to the study of early childhood. Gabriel is both original and scholarly in the way he illuminates his points. Students of early childhood should read this book for a fuller understanding of the importance of early childhood to our contemporary society.
In this concise new volume, based on a strong philosophical and historical structure and supported by examples from contemporary research, Norman Gabriel constructs a framework for understanding the social worlds and experiences of children in early childhood.
There are a number of important themes in this book which helps the reader understand contemporary childhood and how children are seen in society in the contexts of the family, education and how they spend their leisure time.
This text provides interesting and insightful sociological perspectives on childhood. A nice introductory text for any students embarking on theoretical underpinnings for the first time, including investment, power and discourse, habitus, and early intervention. A thought-provoking read.
An interesting thought provoking books which encourages students to question and debate across the spectrum of sociology
Beautiful textbook that engages the students in a journey to understand young children and their development. This text offers students access to many hidden aspects of the young child's world. We have used this text as a springboard during cooperative learning sessions and students have taken this text into practice. Very accessible and supports students of all abilities.
Well explained and laid out
This text is a useful addition to students' reading on the sociological perspectives of childhood. It brings together a number of contemporary themes and issues. The individual reference lists at the end of each chapter are particularly helpful in supporting students' further study.
