Covering all the main areas of study and assuming no prior knowledge of the topic, this book takes the reader through the key elements of child development. Drawing on research, and referencing key theories in the field, it provides students with a comprehensive overview of the subject and its application to early years practice. Topics explored include: - the development of language and literacy - cognition and memory - social and emotional development - physical development (including reference to Development Matters and the EYFS age two progress check) - child development and the early years curriculum - researching child development. Learning features that help to make the text accessible include: chapter overviews; questions for discussion; suggestions for further reading and an end of chapter glossary. This book is suitable for students taking any Early Childhood or Early Years course.