The Early Years Movement Handbook: A Principles-Based Approach to Supporting Young Children’s Physical Development, Health and Wellbeing

A great blend of digestible research presented in a relatable way that leaves the reader in awe of the benefits and importance of getting children moving and understanding that their bodies are their learning environments.This book is packed with activities, ideas and explains the rationale very well. It's a must have for all who are working with children or have young children as it explains wellbeing, kindness and respect for children and we owe it to our children to understand how we can help them become healthier, confident, happy and have a great start in life which will hopefully form good habits that will continue all through their lives.

Dr Manners has produced an outstanding book that clearly lays out the theories behind the practice.I particularly like the 'Canopy' approach, which practitioners will find easy to implement and also understand the reasoning behind it.Similarly, there are many great sections that practitioners could use to reflect on their practice 'Conversations with a paper bag' on page 114 - 116 is 4 pages of Actions/Concepts/Skills associated with a simple (cheap!) paper bag. Most often the simplest ideas are the best!This is a book that is a must for anyone who works with children in any capacity and who wants to understand WHY movement is critical is children's development.

A very comprehensive read. Perfect for those wanting to gain more insight into the underpinning evidence and theory behind physical activity and movement. As a postgraduate student this book will be a valuable reference tool for my future study. Lala's knowledge and wisdom oozes from every page and the practical ideas and case studies are easy to follow, adaptable and replicable - a must buy!

An absolute gem of a book, the links to historical context, theory and research, provide underpinning knowledge and confidence to ensure Early Years professionals can deliver the practical ideas and cascade knowledge to parents.

I have two young grandchildren and got this book to guide me. It’s fantastic. I’ve bought 2 more copies, one for the other grandmother and one for my daughter-in-law

This is an excellent, fully comprehensive and meticulous study

As an EY practitioner I knew many of the terms and approaches mentioned in the book but the handbook has provided a context and wider understanding to link it all together. It provides the relevant knowledge to fully inform you and suggestions of how to implement some of the approaches. A must read for educators in nurseries, preschools and schools.

I really valued reading this timely and thought provoking book. The discourses included go beyond the realms of physical development and you get a sense of how movement in the early years has been part of history, cultural reflections and contemporary tensions as to how movement is interpreted and supported. The consistent links to research and practical application was also helpful and I will certainly recommend this to students and practitioners working in early years and beyond.