Description: Drawing on research evidence from across the world, this book offers a wide-ranging perspective on the ways in which we understand and study young children. The book summarizes current debates in child development, and looks at different ways of understanding early childhood and the various methods used to gain understanding, featuring: - Personal memories of childhood - Neuro-scientific and genetic interpretations of childhood - Cultural perspectives - Chapters on history, health and child rights Understanding Early Childhood concludes with an analysis of everyday practices in working with young children from across the world. It is key reading for early childhood students and practitioners working with young children.