Early Childhood Education: History, Theory, and Practice (2nd ed.).

EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION: History, Theory, and Practice (2nd ed.). Harry Morgan. Lanham, MD: Rowman & Littlefield Publishers, Inc., 2011. 233 pp. Paperback, $35.53. Harry Morgan, a professor of child development, learning theory, and research at the University of West Georgia, has written many books on early education, development, and learning strategies. His latest book looks at the history, theoretical background, science, and public perception of early childhood education. It also provides literacy development strategies for parents and teachers and describes the current state and future of early education.

This book is geared toward teachers of early education but could benefit other teachers as well. It begins with a look at the history of early education and such theorists as Freud, Parlor, Piaget, Erikson, and Vygotsky. Morgan shows how their theories were influential, leading societies to stop viewing children as valuable only for their labor skills and instead teaching them the literacy skills they would need to lead better lives and create a better future.

I particularly enjoyed the strategies I could put into practice in my own classroom. It explains the stages that children go through in the learning process and how we as teachers/ caregivers should acknowledge and adapt to those stages. The importance of play is emphasized, as it teaches children conflict resolution and social skills. This book contains something for everyone wanting to learn more about how the field of early education has improved, and how we can continue to improve it and help children to succeed. Reviewed by Lauren Gibbs, Head Start Preschool Educator, Gloucester, MA.