Research methods is a challenging topic for many students. When you are new to research you need a step-by-step guide which introduces the subject area in a clear and accessible way. This book does exactly that. Designed with the early childhood student in mind, this book is the companion to your research journey. Following a progressive structure this book leads you logically through the processes needed to design and carry out meaningful and ethical research. This Fourth Edition includes: Two new chapters, separating out quantitative data analysis and qualitative data analysis A reader guide at the beginning of the book to aid navigation. Research in Focus boxes, which introduce you to real world examples of international research Activities to help cement knowledge and understanding. Case Studies which describe examples and scenarios of real student research, which demonstrate best practice and show how to present findings. An extended glossary to support readers in learning complicated terminology. Online resources complement this new edition, offering valuable resources for instructions and students including: Author videos, offering tips and explanations. Flashcard glossary to consolidate learning MCQs to test understanding Free journal articles for wider reading PowerPoint slides

'This text will be an invaluable addition to the reading of students and tutors alike. It has been written thoughtfully for students embarking on university courses that study aspects of early childhood education. The introductory chapters give the reader a sense of the thinking and reflection that is helpful for them at the beginning of their studies and a clear focus on the rights of our youngest children roots the text in a sound pedagogical frame. The later chapters broaden the argument and feel very relevant to the current context in their explorations of the policy and practice of EYFS. I would strongly recommend this text.' -Jo Albin-Clark, Senior Lecturer in Early Years Education, Edge Hill University

This book 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.

Each chapter introduces major concepts and theories which allow you to explore the foundations of key early childhood issues and apply them in practice. Topics include:

Children's rights The Early Years curriculum How children learn and develop Health and well-being

As well as looking at important aspects of study such as:

How to search primary sources, such as policy documents and journals How to use your personal experience in studying How to develop critical reading and writing skills

With specific learning features designed for different levels of study, this book will be invaluable to students studying at levels 4 and 5 of early childhood degrees and foundation degrees, with features designed to support students as they make the transition to honours level study. Digital resources for extra support Check out the companion website for additional material including: interactive glossary flashcards journal tasks web links to more handy online resources

Research methods is a challenging topic for many students. When you are new to research you need a step-by-step guide which introduces the subject area in a clear and accessible way. This book does exactly that. Designed with the early childhood student in mind, this book is the companion to your research journey. Following a progressive structure this book leads you logically through the processes needed to design and carry out meaningful and ethical research. This Fourth Edition includes: Two new chapters, separating out quantitative data analysis and qualitative data analysis A reader guide at the beginning of the book to aid navigation. Research in Focus boxes, which introduce you to real world examples of international research Activities to help cement knowledge and understanding. Case Studies which describe examples and scenarios of real student research, which demonstrate best practice and show how to present findings. An extended glossary to support readers in learning complicated terminology. Online resources complement this new edition, offering valuable resources for instructions and students including: Author videos, offering tips and explanations. Flashcard glossary to consolidate learning MCQs to test understanding Free journal articles for wider reading PowerPoint slides

'I believe that [this book] could be of value to practitioners working with birth-five year olds, heads or managers of nurseries, health professionals or students who wish to gain an overview of this subject....I enjoyed reading this book and it literally gave me much food for thought' - Early Years 'This book is a welcome addition and the contributors should be congratulated on the scope and depth they manage to achieve...this book is an interesting read, dealing with a topical, yet complex issue' - Journal of Early Childhood Research 'Food plays a huge part in our lives, and this book looks holistically at its influence, including our emotional as well as physical wellbeing. It provides useful facts on diet and healthy eating guidelines for children under five, school age children, adults and pregnant mothers...There is advice on promoting positive attitudes towards food in an early years setting, along with practical advice and case studies to help practitioners promote heatlhy eating in their settings' - Early Years Update 'This highly readable, thoroughly researched book explores food and eating in an historical, cultural and psychological context and, as public concern about children's nutrition rises, its publication is timely. Food and Health in Early Childhood is a comprehensive, clearly written text enriched with case studies and pertinent reflective activities to consolidate learning' - Angela Underdown, Associate Professor, Early Childhood Studies, University of Warwick The media interest surrounding children, food and nutrition continues to influence policy and practice in early years settings, and food and eating is of fundamental importance to early childhood practice. Not only does food contribute to health, in terms of nutrition it's also a vital part of a child's emotional and socio-cultural experience that is linked to their growing sense of well-being and identity. This book gives you a comprehensive overview of food and eating in the early years, covering the following: - nutrition - policy development - health inequalities - food, culture and identity - food and emotion - healthy eating guidelines - promoting healthy eating in the early years - multi-disciplinary working in relation to young children's nutrition Each chapter includes case studies, links to useful websites, activities and suggestions for further reading. An interactive approach from the reader is encouraged throughout the book. Aimed at all early years practitioners, it will be of particular interest to those studying for Early Childhood Studies' degrees and those studying for EYPS. Other professionals and students with an interest in this area (teachers, health visitors, dieticians) will also find it useful.