Understanding Sustainability in Early Childhood Education: Case Studies and Approaches from Across the UK

This unique book explores research related to education for sustainability within early childhood education in the United Kingdom. Divided into the four Home Nations, it examines what education for sustainability looks like in practice, discusses the different application and positions of each regio [...]
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This unique book explores research related to education for sustainability within early childhood education in the United Kingdom. Divided into the four Home Nations, it examines what education for sustainability looks like in practice, discusses the different application and positions of each region, and considers the contribution of early childhood education to support the Sustainable Development Goals. Each chapter considers the relevant early years framework and is written with associated case studies, which highlight connections between statutory guidance, policy and positive early years pedagogical practice. Chapters five and six consider the legacies of two influential pioneers Steiner and Montessori in regards to education for sustainability. The authors use an education for sustainability lens to explore the critical issues and explicit and implicit links embedded in each of the curricula frameworks. They take into account outdoor learning and the different interpretations of ecological sustainability, allowing students to explore the role of sustainability in early years education, and help young children understand their world. The book considers early childhood education as a distinct and valuable phase beyond the readiness for school discourse and the importance of skilful and knowledgeable adults to work with young children from birth. It offers a unique resource for students, practitioners, leaders and researchers engaged in the study of education for sustainability in early childhood and the importance of the early years for the development of life-long pro-environmental attitudes.