By focusing on the early philosophies of learning & the key behavioural cognitive & social theorists this book provides a comprehensive overview of childrens learning. The authors discuss the key learning theories highlight the strengths & weaknesses of each approach & encourage reflection on how different approaches impact on the learning environment. The discussion finishes with an exploration of the new sociology of childhood. Examples are drawn from practice to highlight key concepts & to make vital links between theory & practice. Theorists considered include: Locke; Rousseau; Montesori; Piaget; Vygotsky; Bandura; Bronfenbrenner; & Bruner. Accessibly written with key questions & recommended reading included this book is essential reading for all those studying on child development early childhood & childhood studies courses & for anyone interested in understanding more about how children learn & think. Colette Gray is Principal Lecturer in Early Childhood Education at Stranmillis University. Dr Sean Mac Blain is Reader in Child Development & Disability at University College Plymouth St. Mark & St. John. It gives the reader food for thought & questions how we recognise that children have learnt something & more importantly challenges our own confidence & ability to explain the process they moved through to reach that final point". (Denise Chadwick Course Leader BA Early Childhood Studies University of Huddersfield)."