Young Children's Thinking

'This is a book to be treasured. Not only does this deeply respected pioneer of early childhood education bring together major research literature, theoretical understanding and practical help, but she does so in a way that demonstrates her love and commitment in working with young children and helping them to have rich lives intellectually and with personal fulfilment'
- Professor Tina Bruce, CBE

'What comes through is weighty warmth. The weight of research and experience coupled with the warmth of the fascination of children's development over Marion's professional and personal lifetime'
- Mick Waters, Professor of Education at Wolverhampton University

'Marion Dowling's highly knowledgeable yet accessible book will be hugely valuable for all those who care deeply about young children's learning and development'
- Liz Roberts, Editor, Nursery World

'This book is a tour de force which has the potential to change practice and thinking about early childhood'
- Helen Moylett, Early Learning Consultancy, President of Early Education

'It is such a rich kaleidescope of Marion's own original thinking, research and real children. I believe it is so powerfully presented that it will have a huge impact and influence throughout the world of early childhood and education'
-Paddy Beels,Wingate Nursery School

'One of the most enjoyable academic reads I have experienced lately...Lovingly written by a deeply respected and experienced pioneer who effortlessly brings together leading research literature, theoretical understanding and practical with an almost tangible passion'

Martine Horvath, Early Years Educator

One of the most beautiful and enjoyable academic reads I have experienced recently. Exploring the development of children’s thinking from birth to seven-years-old, and how this affects home, early years settings and schools. Lovingly written by a deeply respected and experienced pioneer who effortlessly brings together leading research literature, theoretical understanding and practical help with an almost tangible passion. This book will warm you from the inside out as you smile at the knowledge and case studies, drawn from a lifetime of experience, to help illustrate clearly and accessibly the multi-faceted aspects of supporting children’s thinking.  

This will become a recommended reading text on modules in our Foundation Degree in Teaching and Learning Support. The focus on thinking skills is welcome.

suggested to course leader

A wonderful book for all who really care about young children and how they develop and learn. Recommended for Foundation Degree students.

This is an insightful text which explores children’s thinking development with effective and understandable references to theory. There are case studies and professional check points which provide students the opportunity to reflect on how they promote children’s thinking in their professional role.

This is a valuable text for those working with children in the early years, but it is also highly informative for those managing the transition from early years to KS1. The inclusion of parents' perspective means practitioners can think about how to work in partnership; the clear links to theoretical underpinning provide a framework for practice based on solid research and evidence.

This book has very cleverly woven together both deep theory and good practice. For Foundation Degree students and students on placements this is the ideal combination.
Marion Dowling's style is genuine and enthusiastic, which is perfect for motivating and inspiring students. I'm thrilled to be able to take this book to the students this semester (good timing!)

This is an excellent book which looks at children's thinking. The creative section is an excellent read.

an excellent all round book which I will be recommending to my students on more than one module