Introduction to Early Childhood Education provides current and future educators with a highly readable, comprehensive overview of the field. The underlying philosophy of the book is that early childhood educators’ most important task is to provide a program that is sensitive to and supports the development of young children. Author Eva L. Essa and new co-author Melissa Burnham provide valuable insight by strategically dividing the book into six sections that answer the “What, Who, Why, Where, and How” of early childhood education. Utilizing both NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children) and DAP (Developmentally Appropriate Practice) standards, this supportive text provides readers with the skills, theories, and best practices needed to succeed and thrive as early childhood educators.

Inspire learners to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young children and their families with Introduction to Early Childhood Education, Ninth Edition. This text provides current and future educators with a highly readable, comprehensive overview of the field so students understand the many components of high-quality early childhood programs. At its core, the book emphasizes the vital role of professional early childhood educators in connecting with young children and creating programs that foster their learning and development. Authors Melissa M. Burnham and Eva L. Essa offer valuable insight by strategically dividing the book into six sections that answer the “What, Who, Why, Where, and How” of early childhood education. Aligned with the latest NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children) position statements, including the Professional Standards and Competencies for Early Childhood Educators, this supportive text provides learners with the skills, theories, and practices needed to succeed and thrive as early childhood educators. Also available in Sage Vantage, an intuitive learning platform that integrates quality Sage textbook content with assignable multimedia activities and auto-graded assessments to drive student engagement and ensure accountability. Learn more about 978-1-0719-1449-6, Introduction to Early Childhood Education – Vantage Digital Option, Ninth Edition.