Rowman & Littlefield Publishers Early Childhood Education: History, Theory, and Practice

Harry Morgan lays the foundations of what early childhood education is by integrating the history of the field with the philosophy and theories behind this discipline. From birth to age eight, when children become integrated into society through their education at school and at home, Early Childhood Education examines the education of this age group from its historical beginnings to the theories used then and today. The writings and research of philosophers such as Locke, psychologists such as Freud, and pioneers of early childhood education such as Frobel, are covered in this concise text. With lucid and engaging prose, Morgan delineates the beginnings of early childhood education and how it has become an important field of study in education today. This edition has been updated to include recent research and how current practices and culture affect the field today. Also included in this second edition is a new chapter about critical race theory and its implications on early childhood education. Review Scholars and practitioners of early childhood education sometimes need reminders of how far the field of study has progressed in terms of general acceptance as a valid and actual body of knowledge. Further, we need to celebrate our identity and common culture. Morgan reminds us, in his personable and accessible way, of our shared historical and theoretical roots. His text highlights the contributions of women, social revolutionaries, immigrants, and other historically marginalized groups. Morgan's research and interpretations of history show the necessity of advocacy on behalf of Early Childhood Education. Indeed advocacy on behalf of the rights of women and children is at the heart of Early Childhood Education. This perspective is very timely and should bolster current political efforts on behalf of young children, their families, and the institutions in which they are educated.--Clover Simms Wright, California University of Pennsylvania Harry Morgan's book is a great read for those looking for a concise, thought-provoking book on the history and theoretical background of early childhood education. Morgan doesn't leave the reader in the past, but brings the reader to current policies and issues as well as considering trends for the future.--Linda K. Taylor, Ball State University About the Author Harry Morgan teaches child development, learning theory, and research at the University of West Georgia in Carrollton. An early advocate of early childhood education, his experiences include teaching at Bank Street College in New York City, and professorships at Ohio University and Syracuse University. He is a graduate of New York University, The University of Massachusetts, and the University of Wisconsin-Madison.