Childhood Studies A Reader in Perspectives of Childhood

The nature of childhood, the consideration of whether a certain age denotes innocence or not, and the desire to teach good citizenship to our children are all issues commonly discussed by today's media. This book brings together a variety of perspectives on the study of childhood: how it has been treated historically and how such a concept is developing as we move into a new century. The book is divided into five main sections, as follows: Part One sets the scene and provides the reader with an overview of attitudes towards childhood; Part Two surveys the contribution of literature from the nineteenth and twentieth centuries; Part Three examines educational issues, such as children's play, language acquisition and spiritual development; Part Four looks at cultural representation and children in film; and Part Five offers further help for study and research. This book draws on a number of academic disciplines, including education, literature, language, theology, cultural studies and history. It will be of particular use to students and tutors of Childhood Studies courses and all those studying for a teaching qualification. Teachers of children aged 4-12 years old will find its contribution to their continuing professional development extremely helpful.Mills, Jean is the author of 'Childhood Studies A Reader in Perspectives of Childhood' with ISBN 9780415214148 and ISBN 0415214149.