Every child constantly changes and undergoes processes of emotional, cognitive, normative and physical development. At each age and stage of development children need continued support and assurance from adults in order to assimilate the effects of these changes. The pace of the child’s development and its outcome are determined by both genetic factors and the influence of the environment. The young child in context: a psycho-social perspective examines the complex yet clearly defined phases in child development and suggests how best to encourage and assist children through the formative first nine years of their lives.
In the revised second edition, the case is put more strongly that the context of each child is of crucial importance and that stimulation is essential in enabling the child to reach his or her full potential.
The young child in context follows two different perspectives on the development of the young child: psychological and social-educational. Each chapter provides definitions of concepts, self-test questions, field assignments, additional assignments for revision and case studies related to the topics covered. Issues are discussed within a South African context.
SECTION A: EDUCATIONAL PSYCHOLOGY
Chapter 1 The development of the child from birth to the age of nine
Chapter 2 The humanisation and becoming of the young child
Chapter 3 The young child and learning
Chapter 4 The physicality or bodiliness of the young child
Chapter 5 The development of the nervous system, perception and sensory-motor integration
Chapter 6 The young child’s language and speech development
Chapter 7 The child asking questions
Chapter 8 The young child’s acquisition of an identity
Chapter 9 Children’s play
Chapter 10 The gifted child
Chapter 11 The young child experiencing stress
Chapter 12 Learning and readiness for school
Chapter 13 The role of discipline in the development of the young child
Chapter 14 The spiritual and religious development of the young child
Chapter 15 The characteristics and role of the teacher
SECTION B: SOCIOPEDAGOGICS
Chapter 16 Socialisation of the young child
Chapter 17 The family’s influence on the socialisation of the young child
Chapter 18 The role and influence of the school on the socialisation of the child
Chapter 19 The impact of childcare on the child
Chapter 20 Sex differences and gender role identification in the young child
Chapter 21 The influence of the mass media and recreation on the young child
Chapter 22 Urbanisation and the informal housing sector
Chapter 23 The environmentally deprived child
Chapter 24 Child abuse and vulnerable children
Chapter 25 The immigrant child
