Early Childhood and Neuroscience: Theory, Research and Implications for Practice

by Mine Conkbayir

Overview

Early Childhood and Neuroscience is a practical guide to understanding the complex and challenging subject of neuroscience and its use (and misapplication) in early childhood policy and practice. The 2nd edition has been updated throughout and includes a new Foreword by Dr Laura Jana (Penn State University, USA), a new Introduction and three new chapters on:

- the effects of childhood trauma
- self-regulation
- neurodiversity

The book provides a balanced overview of the debates by weaving discussion on the opportunities of using neuroscience in early childhood practice with examination of the limitations and ethical implications throughout the chapters. This enables students to inform their own opinions about the discipline and its use in their future practice. Clear explanations of the main terms and theories are complemented with illustrative case studies of cutting-edge research from around the world, a glossary of key terms and suggestions for further reading. Reflective discussion questions give readers the chance to apply their theoretical knowledge to real-world contexts.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781350176447
Publisher:	Bloomsbury Academic
Publication date:	03/24/2022
Edition description:	2nd ed.
Pages:	368
Product dimensions:	6.20(w) x 9.20(h) x 0.95(d)

About the Author

Dr Mine Conkbayir is an award-winning author and trainer. She has worked in the field of early childhood education and care for over 20 years and is co-author, with Dr Christine Pascal, of Early Childhood Theories and Contemporary Issues (Bloomsbury, 2014).

Table of Contents

List of Figures
Foreword, Laura Jana (Pennsylvania State University, USA)
Introduction
1. Neuroscience: What is it?
2. Why Should Early Childhood Practitioners Know About Neuroscience?
3. Emotional Wellbeing: How Can We Help to Build Healthy Brains?
4. What Happens in Childhood Does Not Stay in Childhood: The Lasting Legacy of Early Childhood Trauma
5. Self-Regulation: The Key to Developing Positive Adaptive Behaviours across the Life Trajectory
6. Children's Language and Communication Development: What Can Neuroscience Tell Us?
7. Neurodiversity: The Wonders of the Beautiful Brain
8. Beyond Nature Versus Nurture: Is Neuroscience Relevant to the Debate?
9. Conclusions and Recommendations: Where Do We Go from Here?
Glossary of Terms
Bibliography
Index

Editorial Reviews

Neuroscience and early childhood! Mine Conkbayir reveals how scientific evidence guided practice make a difference in early years with this second expanded edition. This book, written like the kindness of the honey bees and the hard work of ants, will remain an essential guide for policymakers, early childhood professionals and parents.” —Mehmet Toran, Editor in Chief of the Jourbanal of Childhood, Education & Society, Istanbul Kültür University, Turkey

“What an exciting time to be in the field of supporting our young. In this 2nd edition of Early Childhood and Neuroscience: Theory, Research and Implications for Practice, Mine Conkbayir has expanded her urgent call to transform the way we provide early childhood education. As educators we work with the brains and bodies of children on a daily bases and knowing how stress and adversity impact learning and development is critical to our work. Our ability to effectively teach our students can no longer ignore this critical information. If we want to provide the best possible outcomes for the children we serve and teach this cutting edge work must be integrated into our schools and programs.” —Michael McKnight, Special Education, Rowan University, USA

“Mine Conkbayir's research is timely showing us the importance of investing in the Early Years of child development. The new chapters outline complex ideas in a clear concise manner to help parents, caregivers, early educators, and others to understand and apply the principles to nurture positive outcomes.” —Rena Romano, Author, TEDx Speaker and Well Being Coach, USA

“In her book, Early Childhood and Neuroscience, Conkbayir, does an excellent job of examining how the brain works as it relates to learning. I found the chapter on self-regulation particularly insightful, as it examined the 5 domains of self-regulation as it relates to early childhood age children. I would highly recommend this book to teachers, researchers, and university students!” —Brad Johnson, Educational and Motivational Speaker and Author, USA

“This practical guide translates the complex subject of neuroscience ... and distils its implications for practice.” —Nursery World (of the first edition)

“I especially enjoyed the myth-busting sections found throughout the book. I thought this was an excellent addition for readers without a neuroscience background ... I think Early Childhood and Neuroscience offers an excellent summary of a variety of topics for a wide range of readers.” —The Psychologist (of the first edition)

From the Publisher