In recent years, scientific research has provided sufficient evidence on the importance of the early years of life, especially before the age of five. The most significant findings highlight the importance of brain development in the first four years and the significant role that adults play in facilitating this process. Evidence also indicates that quality healthcare, nutrition, safety and protection, early learning and stimulation, as well as constant responsive caregiving, are important aspects that children require in order to reach their full potential in life.
The best start in life focuses on the physical, cognitive, social, emotional and linguistic aspects of a child’s development before the age of five. It is a comprehensive resource that offers practical ideas for the first four years of life using the South African education context, as well as relevant information, knowledge and practical ideas to foster the child’s development. The book focuses on certain foundational theories of early childhood development without being too complex, making it suitable as a practical guide for students, early childhood practitioners and even parents who want to help their children grow and thrive, while preparing them for their future and laying the foundation for lifelong learning.
SECTION A CHILD DEVELOPMENT
Chapter 1 Early childhood development in South Africa: A historical perspective
Chapter 2 Early childhood development theories and approaches
Chapter 3 Inclusive education in early childhood: disabilities, barriers and facilitators in the early years
SECTION B WELL-BEING
Chapter 4 Well-being in early childhood
Chapter 5 Identity and belonging in early childhood development
Chapter 6 Health, safety and nutrition in early childhood
Chapter 7 Early life skills: physical education and development
SECTION C LANGUAGE AND COMMUNICATION
Chapter 8 Early communication, language and literacy acquisition: promoting literacy skills development through listening and speaking
Chapter 9 Conversational language proficiency in a second language and multilingualism
Chapter 10 African languages as Home or Additional Language
SECTION D SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING, ART AND MATHEMATICS IN EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT
Chapter 11 Science, technology and engineering in early childhood development
Chapter 12 Creativity and art in early childhood development
Chapter 13 Mathematics in early childhood development
SECTION E PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Chapter 14 Educational media and technology in early childhood education
Chapter 15 Curriculum, pedagogy and assessment in early childhood education
Chapter 16 Leadership and management in early childhood development
Chapter 17 Building partnerships with families and communities
