Gender Equity in the Early Years

Acknowledgements

INTRODUCTION

1.WHERE ARE WE NOW ?

2.SEDUCTIVE SCIENCE

3 THE APPEAL OF NEW PEDAGOGIES

4 GIRLS AND BOYS UNDERSTANDING, PLAYING AND TALKING ABOUT GENDER

5 MUMMIES AND SUPERHEROES

6 REFLECTIONS ON WHAT WE DO

7 ‘RECUPERATIVE MASCULINITY’ STRATEGIES AND SUPERHERO PLAY

8 ARE MORE MEN NEEDED?

AFTERWORD

Bibliography

Index

Taking into consideration recent research, this book considers the validity of the ‘scientific’ conclusions being drawn about the biological basis for gender differences. Children’s perceptions of ‘masculinities’ and ‘femininities’ are also under scrutiny as the author analyses their imaginative role play and storytelling in early years settings. The author also looks at the principles behind the pre-school provision in Reggio Emilia and focuses on the extent to which this approach fosters gender equity.

This groundbreaking book is essential reading for professionals working with young children, students on early childhood education and early childhood studies courses and heads and deputies in nurseries and primary and nursery schools.