Childhood can only be understood in relation to the multitude of social factors which surround it. Written for students of degrees and foundation degrees in Early Years, Early Childhood Studies and related disciplines, this accessible text offers an introduction to the study of these complex issues including the different contexts within which childhood exists. These contexts, from the child within the family, to the global perspective and the child's own perspective are closely examined. This second edition is updated in line with recent changes to early years policy and includes a new chapter 'The context of partnership: children in transition'. About the Early Years Series This series has been designed to support students of Early Years, Early Childhood Studies and related disciplines in popular modules of their course. Each text takes a focused look at a specific topic and approaches it in an accessible and user-friendly way. Features have been developed to help readers engage with the text and understand the subject from a number of different viewpoints. Activities pose questions to prompt thought and discussion and 'Theory Focus' boxes examine essential theory close-up for better understanding. This series is also applicable to EYPS candidates on all pathways. Other titles in the series are Early Childhood Studies, Becoming a Practitioner in the Early Years, Child Observation for the Early Years and Exploring Play for Early Childhood Studies. Rory McDowall Clark originally trained as a nursery and primary teacher in Brighton and has a wide range of experience in broader social contexts including community development with charities, voluntary organisations and outreach youth work. Rory is a senior lecturer in the Centre for Early Childhood at the University of Worcester.