Book excerpt: Understanding Gender and Early Childhood is a comprehensive and accessible introduction into the main issues around gender and what these mean for our youngest children. Drawing on key theories and research, and illustrating each topic with case studies, reflective questions and a summary of key points, students are encouraged to question why it is more relevant than ever to consider gender issues and to reflect critically on their own practice and on the practice of others. The three parts examine gender in relation to the children, the workforce and wider society, concluding with inclusive suggestions for the future of the early years classroom. Topics covered include: how gender impacts on children’s play, learning and achievement, the gender imbalance in the early years workforce and the impact of this on children, the gendered ways in which people engage with children, gender issues in children’s health. This book is an essential read for those studying on Early Years and Early Childhood courses, along with practitioners and anyone else who wants to develop their understanding of the most pressing issues relating to gender and early childhood practice.