Nurturing Young Children as Spiritual Beings in a Globalized World

This book brings together leading academics and practitioners to provide research-informed strategies for nurturing young children as spiritual beings.Globalization and performativity have led to a narrowing of education in early years settings and schools, and this book considers the types of knowledge and capabilities children and educators need to address the challenges this presents. The chapters explore and critique existing practices in a range of areas including sustainability, inclusion, relationships with parents, ethics of care, and the role of the arts. Written by contributors based in Australia, Canada, Malta, Norway, the UK and the USA, the book offers theoretical discussion and practical strategies to help educators nurture young children’s spirituality emphasising holistic approaches and caring relationships as an antidote to current neoliberal discourse.

Elizabeth Rouse is Associate Professor in Education, Early Childhood at Deakin University, Australia.

Brendan Hyde is Senior Lecturer in Education, Pedagogy and Curriculum at Deakin University, Australia.

Tony Eaude is an independent researcher, affiliated with Oxford University, UK.