Find solutions and guidance in your classroom today by learning about the theoretical foundations of early childhood care. Theories of Childhood examines the work of five groundbreaking education theorists in relation to early childhood. Author Carol Garhart Mooney distills each theorist's work to reveal how it relates to child care and children. She shows how John Dewey examined the qualities that make curriculum meaningful; Maria Montessori, the need for carefully prepared classroom environments; Erik Erikson, an approach to making children healthy and comfortable; Jean Piaget, our knowledge of children's thought processes; and Lev Vygotsky, the importance of teachers and peers in learning. Theories of Childhood is perfect for undergraduate programs, community college courses, and training workshops, or to help keep staff aware of the theories behind good child care practice. - Back cover.