Child Development: A Social Science Perspective addresses growth from the prenatal period through adolescence, blending psychology, sociology, anthropology, biology, education, and social work. Grounded in an assets-based, humanistic philosophy, it integrates ethical frameworks, global perspectives, and real-world applications. With research, case studies, and field activities, it helps readers understand developmental complexity and highlights opportunities for children’s participation, wellbeing, and potential across varied contexts.
Chapter 1 Physical Growth and Wellness
Chapter 2 Interactions with Humans and Animals
Chapter 3 Autobiographical Development and Mental Health
Chapter 4 Development in the Academic Content Areas
Chapter 5 Developing Civic Agency
Jessica
Essary
Dr. Jess Essary is the proud mother of Guyal and Olaus, as well as an award-winning educational research author and educational leader with over 70 professional peer-reviewed presentations and publications. Dr. Essary, Professor of Early Childhood Education at Florida Gulf Coast University, has amassed two decades of extensive teaching experience across early childhood, elementary, and higher education—with 4.5 years as an international expat at Zayed University in Dubai—and USA contexts, having instructed over 40 distinct undergraduate and graduate courses. Serving as a United Nations NGO Delegate for the World Organization for Early Childhood Education, Dr. Essary advocates for child development and children’s rights as foundational principles guiding professional practice in the social sciences. Nevertheless, long before these professional achievements and her ongoing continuous improvement interests, Jessie exhibited an early enthusiasm for engaging with children.
Over the past 40 years I have used many child development textbooks to support my instruction. None, however, were as informative, user-friendly, or inspiring as this volume! I just wish I could begin my career over starting with Child Development: A Social Perspective in my classes.
James L. Hoot, Ph.D. Professor Emeritus State University of New York at Buffalo
Past President, Association for Childhood Education International
“Step into the wonder of childhood!” This book brings child development to life – full of curiosity, creativity, and discovery. Whether you’re an educator, parent, or just fascinated by how kids grow, it’s an inspiring read that will leave you seeing childhood with fresh eyes.
Dr Janniina Vlasov, Counsellor of Evaluation, Finnish Education Evaluation Centre
This book invites readers to actively wonder about the world of child development with care and responsibility. The chapters masterfully weave knowledge and wisdom from different disciplines and perspectives, offering a comprehensive introduction to the consequential field of study for society and every child.
Ekaterina Strekalova-Hughes, Associate Professor of Early Childhood Education, University of Missouri-Kansas City