Children's Cultural Worlds

This book is the third of four which form part of the Open University course, U212, Childhood. Together they provide an undergraduate-level introduction to the interdisciplinary field of childhood and youth studies, and a framework for analyzing contemporary policy and practice in, for instance, education, health and social work. Childhood is now a global issue, forcing a reconsideration of conventional approaches to study. Childhood is also a very personal issue for each and every one of us - scholars, policy-makers, parents and children. The books encourage the reader's active involvement, especially through the use of activities. They include children's and parents' voices as well academic discussion of childhood in diverse societies and points in history. Selected readings accompany the chapters to present additional perspectives. Children's Cultural Worlds looks at the distinctiveness of children's worlds by exploring their everyday activities, an exploration that ranges from young children to teenagers. Topics include: friendship and the significance of play; how children use language to construct rela tionships and identities; the role of print literature, other media, and information and communications technology in children's lives; youth cultures; and children's growing signficance as consumers.Kehily, Mary Jane is the author of 'Children's Cultural Worlds' with ISBN 9780470846940 and ISBN 0470846941.