For students, Understanding Child Development examines the qualities of the young child compared with those of older children and it presents techniques for working with young children in ways that meet their developmental, social and cultural needs. For in-service teachers, it presents the chance to examine their own views of young children and to make comparisons with the views presented. The author fully discusses the importance of play and technology to young children's learning, along with popular theoretical views of learning. She also puts emphasis on the factors relevant to working with children with special needs. Looking Further and Time to Reflect are two examples of activities that encourage contemplation and discussion. Many real-life examples, as well as explanatory charts, review questions and lists of resources, round out the author's thorough coverage of this subject matter.