Exploring Wellbeing in the Early Years

Children's experiences and well-being in their earliest years underpin and highly influence their future development and learning. Drawing on research with parents, children and a range of professionals in the early childhood field, this book considers how well-being is interpreted in the early childhood field. It includes snapshots of what our youngest children think about their well-being, and examines external environmental contexts that impact on well-being.

The book raises a number of important issues and clarifies priorities that need to be kept at the forefront of practice and provision, such as the fundamental importance of prioritizing children and families' socio-cultural contexts, addressing inequalities and developing a listening culture. Importantly, there is also focus on appropriate pedagogical approaches and aspects of practice that support children's well-being in early childhood settings, such as adult-child relationships, quality interactions, physical play and creative expression. The book also highlights the inseparability of adults' and children's well-being and therefore the need to consider contexts that enhance the potential for parents and practitioners to experience well-being.

For all students and practitioners who want to put young children's well-being at the forefront of their practice this is a fascinating, thought provoking and illuminating read.

Contributors: Deborah Albon, Mary Dickins, Melian Mansfield, Penny Holland, Micky LeVoguer, Penny Mukherji, Jasmine Pasch, Linda Pound, Judy Stevenson

"The 'now' of children's experience emerges as a critical factor from the 'Talking about Young Children's Well-being' Project. It is a timely reminder that young children have a right to be listened to. Well-being as a concept is redefined using the voices of children, parents and practitioners. Important questions are raised about the cost to individuals and society if this is not taken seriously. The authors of each chapter use the research findings to reflect on current early years policy and practice. Their conclusions catch us at the crossroads of a deeply political debate."
Dilys Wilson, Senior Lecturer in Early Childhood Studies at Middlesex University, UK

"At a time of austerity and pressure on family life and early childhood, I consider this book to be both insightful and thought provoking which has both breadth and depth. Dedicating a book to exploring well-being in early childhood demonstrates a commitment by the author and colleagues to delve deeper into the vital issues of well-being and the impact...