Developing Learning in Early Childhood by Tina Bruce (Paul Chapman, Pounds 17.99, 0 7619 4175 4, 020 7324 8500) Reviewed by Collette Drifte, early years consultant
This book is aimed at students training to teach children between the ages of three and eight, but I feel it would be useful to a much wider professional readership. It's an excellent and easy-to-read text, blending theory and research with practice.
Each chapter format is clear, with the key themes outlined at the beginning, then the main body, followed by useful and thought-provoking questions for good practice to ponder and relevant further reading at the end.
Throughout the whole book runs the thread of an innovative holistic project in Edinburgh that Tina Bruce was involved in. She uses examples, case studies and descriptions of children in the project to illustrate points.
The book ties modern thinking and research with the work of Piaget, Bruner and Vygotsky. It also explores practical ways of helping children to develop and learn with enthusiasm. I was particularly pleased to find a section dealing with dance, an activity that's so often missing from early years settings, and one which has huge potential for learning experiences.
