If you work in the early years, you have probably heard of Montessori and Bronfenbrenner - but have you heard of Bavolek or Fisher? Contemporary theorists and theories of early childhood learning have much to teach us. It is often forgotten that this learning is still evolving and that new voices are joining the discussion every year.  

With new chapters on Maslow, Bowlby, Piaget and Vygotsky, this second edition introduces you to some contemporary theorists and explores their work alongside more well-known thinkers. It demonstrates how these theories relate to everyday practice in the early years and that discussion of them can support ongoing professional learning.

Aaron Bradbury is Principal Lecturer for Early Childhood Studies, Childhood, Early Years Apprenticeships and Higher Technical Qualifications in Early Years at Nottingham Trent University. Research Interests: Widening participation (access for all) with links to apprenticeship pedagogy, Early Years and Education. Ruth Swailes has almost 30 years’ experience in primary education, over 20 of them in senior leadership roles including primary headship. Ruth has worked as a School Improvement Advisor, Ofsted inspector, Early Years consultant and moderator in several Local Authorities, she has advised on DFE accredited phonics schemes and is the lead author, curriculum consultant and trainer on the Oxford University Press International Early Years curriculum. She has recently written their curriculum for 2-3-year-olds.