Early Years

Scope & Guideline

Cultivating Growth in Early Years Education

Introduction

Welcome to your portal for understanding Early Years, featuring guidelines for its aims and scope. Our guidelines cover trending and emerging topics, identifying the forefront of research. Additionally, we track declining topics, offering insights into areas experiencing reduced scholarly attention. Key highlights include highly cited topics and recently published papers, curated within these guidelines to assist you in navigating influential academic dialogues.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN0957-5146
PublisherROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTD
Support Open AccessNo
CountryUnited States
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 1980 to 2024
AbbreviationEARLY YEARS-ABINGDON / Early Years
Frequency5 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
Address2-4 PARK SQUARE, MILTON PARK, ABINGDON OX14 4RN, OXON, ENGLAND

Aims and Scopes

The journal 'Early Years' is dedicated to advancing the field of early childhood education and care (ECEC) through rigorous research and practical insights. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the complexities of early childhood pedagogy, the role of educators, and the socio-cultural contexts in which young children develop. The journal aims to provide a platform for innovative practices, theoretical frameworks, and critical analyses that inform policy and practice in ECEC.
  1. Early Childhood Pedagogy:
    Exploring diverse pedagogical approaches and their effectiveness in fostering children's learning and development. This includes play-based learning, inquiry-based strategies, and the integration of digital tools.
  2. Professional Development and Leadership:
    Focusing on the professional growth of early childhood educators, including leadership styles, emotional labor, and collaborative practices within educational communities.
  3. Inclusive Education:
    Investigating practices that promote inclusion for children with diverse needs, including those with disabilities, and how educators can effectively engage families in this process.
  4. Cultural and Contextual Influences:
    Examining the impact of cultural, social, and economic factors on early childhood education practices, and how these elements shape children's experiences and educators' approaches.
  5. Policy and Advocacy:
    Analyzing early childhood education policies at national and international levels, with a focus on how these frameworks affect practice and the well-being of children and families.
  6. Child Development and Well-being:
    Researching aspects of child development, including emotional, social, cognitive, and physical growth, and how these domains intersect with educational practices.
The journal 'Early Years' has identified several trending and emerging themes that reflect the current landscape of early childhood education. These themes indicate a shift towards more inclusive, responsive, and holistic approaches to early education.
  1. Digital Literacy and Technology Integration:
    An increasing number of studies are exploring how digital tools can be integrated into early childhood education in meaningful ways, enhancing children's learning experiences and engagement.
  2. Mental Health and Well-being:
    There is a growing focus on the mental health and well-being of both educators and children, particularly in light of recent global challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Research is addressing how to support emotional resilience and mental health in early education settings.
  3. Family Engagement and Partnerships:
    Emerging themes highlight the importance of strong partnerships between families and educators, recognizing families as integral to the educational process and children's development.
  4. Critical Pedagogy and Social Justice:
    An increasing trend towards examining issues of equity, diversity, and inclusion in early childhood education, with a focus on social justice and the implications for practice.
  5. Play as a Context for Learning:
    Research is increasingly framing play not just as a method of learning but as a vital context that influences children's cognitive, social, and emotional development.

Declining or Waning

While 'Early Years' continues to evolve and adapt to emerging trends, certain themes have seen a decline in prominence over recent years. This may reflect changing priorities within the field or a shift in focus towards more pressing contemporary issues.
  1. Traditional Assessment Methods:
    There has been a noticeable decline in the emphasis on conventional assessment practices in early childhood settings. Instead, there is a growing preference for holistic and formative assessment methods that better capture children's learning processes.
  2. Standardized Curriculum Models:
    The journal has seen a reduced focus on rigid, standardized curriculum frameworks in favor of more flexible, child-centered approaches that allow for individualization and responsiveness to children's needs.
  3. Behaviorist Approaches to Learning:
    Research aligning with behaviorist theories, which focus on direct reinforcement and rote learning, appears to be waning. The journal now favors constructivist and socio-cultural theories that emphasize active learning and social interaction.
  4. Isolation of Educators' Roles:
    There is less emphasis on the isolated role of the educator as a singular authority. Instead, the discourse has shifted towards collaborative practices that involve families and communities in the educational process.
  5. Emphasis on Traditional Play Types:
    While play remains a critical focus, there is a decline in research centered solely on traditional forms of play. The exploration of diverse, modern play experiences and their implications for learning has taken precedence.

Similar Journals

Early Child Development and Care

Bridging disciplines for a brighter future in child development.
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 0300-4430Frequency: 16 issues/year

Early Child Development and Care is an esteemed journal published by ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTD, dedicated to advancing the interdisciplinary understanding of early child development. With an ISSN of 0300-4430 and E-ISSN 1476-8275, the journal has established itself as a pivotal resource in the fields of Developmental and Educational Psychology and Pediatrics, holding a Q3 and Q2 ranking respectively in 2023. The comprehensive coverage from 1971 to the present encompasses critical research findings, theoretical discussions, and practical applications, catering to an audience of researchers, educators, and child care professionals. With a solid impact factor reflecting its relevance across disciplines, this journal aims to foster knowledge exchange and informed practices in child development and care, empowering its readers with evidence-based insights. Although not an open-access publication, it remains accessible to a wide array of institutions, ensuring that vital research contributes to the ongoing discourse in early childhood studies.

Infancias Imagenes

Fostering Insight into Visual Culture and Childhood
Publisher: UNIV DISTRITAL FRANCISCO JOSE CALDASISSN: 1657-9089Frequency: 2 issues/year

Welcome to Infancias Imagenes, a premier journal dedicated to the interdisciplinary study of children's images and representations, published by UNIV DISTRITAL FRANCISCO JOSE CALDAS. Since its inception in 2006, this Open Access journal has served as a vital platform for researchers, educators, and practitioners to explore the multifaceted dimensions of childhood through visual culture, pedagogy, and social discourse. With its commitment to disseminating high-quality research, Infancias Imagenes plays a significant role in shaping the academic landscape, fostering dialogue among stakeholders across various disciplines. As an emerging voice in the field, the journal invites contributions that not only advance scholarly discussion but also engage with pressing societal issues surrounding childhood, ensuring its relevance in both academic and professional contexts. The journal is accessible online, enhancing visibility and allowing for a broader audience to engage with cutting-edge research in children's image studies.

Revista Electronica Complutense de Investigacion en Educacion Musical-RECIEM

Inspiring the Future of Music Education through Open Access
Publisher: UNIV COMPLUTENSE MADRID, SERVICIO PUBLICACIONESISSN: 1698-7454Frequency: 1 issue/year

Revista Electronica Complutense de Investigacion en Educacion Musical (RECIEM) is a distinguished open-access journal published by UNIV COMPLUTENSE MADRID, SERVICIO PUBLICACIONES, dedicated to advancing research in the fields of music education and pedagogy. Since its inception in 2004, RECIEM has provided a vital platform for scholars, educators, and researchers to disseminate their findings and foster discussions that bridge the gap between theory and practice in music education. With an impressive ranking in the top quartile for music (Q1) and a respectable Q3 ranking in education for 2023, RECIEM is a pivotal resource for those engaged in the interdisciplinary nexus of arts and education. The journal's commitment to open access ensures that its scholarly content is available to a global audience, enhancing its impact and fostering collaboration among professionals in the music education community. The journal covers diverse topics within music and education, aiming to inspire innovation and reflect contemporary developments in teaching methodologies and musicological research. RECIEM’s continued growth—represented by its robust Scopus ranks and the convergence of years from 2004 to 2024—underscores its relevance and significance in shaping the future of music education research.

Language Teaching for Young Learners

Transforming language education for the next generation.
Publisher: JOHN BENJAMINS PUBLISHING COISSN: 2589-2053Frequency: 2 issues/year

Language Teaching for Young Learners, published by John Benjamins Publishing Co, is a premier journal dedicated to enhancing the pedagogy of language acquisition in early childhood education. Since its inception in 2019, it has rapidly established itself within the research community, reflected by its high Scopus rankings—placing it in the 85th percentile for Language and Linguistics and the 84th percentile for Education. The journal aims to provide a platform for innovative research, practical insights, and theoretical discussions surrounding the teaching of languages to young learners, thus contributing significantly to the fields of Education and Linguistics. With an open access model currently unavailable, it caters to a diverse global audience, including researchers, educators, and policy-makers, keen on improving pedagogical practices. Located in the Netherlands, the journal's commitment to academic excellence is evident through its Q1 and Q2 rankings in Linguistics and Language and Education respectively, encouraging continual discourse in cultivating effective language education practices.

Infants & Young Children

Fostering Understanding of Early Childhood Development
Publisher: LIPPINCOTT WILLIAMS & WILKINSISSN: 0896-3746Frequency: 4 issues/year

Infants & Young Children is a pioneering journal established in 1988 and published by Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, focusing on the critical developmental phases of infancy and early childhood. With a commitment to advancing research in Developmental and Educational Psychology, Pediatrics, Perinatology and Child Health, as well as Psychiatry and Mental Health, this journal serves as an essential resource for professionals and scholars dedicated to understanding and enhancing the early years of life. As a member of the Q3 category in multiple relevant fields, it informs and stimulates discourse with its impactful scholarly articles, meeting the diverse needs of researchers, practitioners, and policymakers alike. Though access is not currently open, subscribers can expect high-quality, peer-reviewed research that underscores the importance of early experiences in shaping lifelong outcomes. Located in Philadelphia, this journal continues to make significant contributions to child health and education, aiming to bridge gaps in knowledge and ensure a foundation for thriving, healthy futures.

CHILDHOOD-A GLOBAL JOURNAL OF CHILD RESEARCH

Connecting Cultures Through Child Research
Publisher: SAGE PUBLICATIONS LTDISSN: 0907-5682Frequency: 4 issues/year

CHILDHOOD: A Global Journal of Child Research is a leading peer-reviewed publication dedicated to advancing the field of child research, published by SAGE Publications Ltd in the United Kingdom. With an ISSN of 0907-5682 and an E-ISSN of 1461-7013, the journal has earned a prestigious reputation, securing a Q1 ranking in both Anthropology and Cultural Studies, along with commendable rankings in other social science categories. Spanning a convergence of impactful years from 1993 to 2024, CHILDHOOD aims to provide a multidisciplinary platform for researchers, educators, and practitioners to explore diverse perspectives on childhood and the experiences of children across the globe. Although it is not an open-access journal, it remains accessible to a wide audience through various institutional subscriptions and databases. As an influential resource in the social sciences, particularly within developmental and educational psychology, CHILDHOOD continues to shape discourse and inspire scholarship that critically engages with children's lives, cultures, and rights.

Journal of Research in Childhood Education

Exploring the dynamics of childhood learning.
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 0256-8543Frequency: 4 issues/year

The Journal of Research in Childhood Education, published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, is a prestigious academic journal that has been at the forefront of childhood education research since its inception in 1986. With an ISSN of 0256-8543 and E-ISSN 2150-2641, this journal serves an essential role in disseminating findings and discussions pertinent to the fields of developmental and educational psychology, as demonstrated by its notable rankings in the 2023 Scopus Ranks, placing it in the 66th percentile of Educational Social Sciences and 49th percentile in Developmental Psychology. With a current Q2 category quartile designation in both Developmental and Educational Psychology and Education, it aims to foster a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding childhood education practices and policies. Researchers, educators, and students alike will find robust and insightful research that contributes to advancing educational theories and practices, supporting the journal's mission to enhance the overall quality of education for children globally. This journal continues to be a critical resource for individuals passionate about enhancing early childhood education and comprehending the developmental challenges faced by children today.

EARLY CHILDHOOD RESEARCH QUARTERLY

Transforming Insights into Action for Young Learners
Publisher: ELSEVIER SCIENCE INCISSN: 0885-2006Frequency: 4 issues/year

EARLY CHILDHOOD RESEARCH QUARTERLY, published by Elsevier Science Inc, stands as a pivotal journal in the fields of Developmental and Educational Psychology, Education, and Sociology and Political Science. With an impressive ranking in the 2023 Q1 category and notable Scopus standings (e.g., 84th percentile in Sociology and Political Science), the journal is recognized for its rigorous and impactful research contributions spanning the years from 1986 to 2024. Although it does not offer open access, the journal ensures a widespread influence by providing essential insights into early childhood development, educational practices, and sociopolitical dynamics affecting young learners. The importance of this journal cannot be overstated; it serves as a critical resource for researchers, educators, and policy-makers dedicated to enhancing the quality of early childhood education and understanding the complexities of development in these formative years. Its curated content not only drives academic discourse but also informs practical applications in the field, making it an essential read for those committed to advancing knowledge and practice in early childhood education.

Contemporary Issues in Early Childhood

Advancing Knowledge in Early Childhood Education
Publisher: SAGE PUBLICATIONS LTDISSN: 1463-9491Frequency: 4 issues/year

Contemporary Issues in Early Childhood is a leading academic journal published by SAGE Publications Ltd, dedicated to advancing the field of early childhood education and developmental psychology. With an ISSN of 1463-9491, this journal serves as a vital platform for disseminating research that addresses both pressing and emerging challenges in early childhood contexts. It has established itself within the academic community, currently ranked in the Q3 category for Developmental and Educational Psychology and Q2 for Education, reflecting its significant contribution to the field. The journal's robust scholarly output, indexed in Scopus, underscores its essential role, ranking 623rd out of 1543 in Social Sciences Education and 198th out of 360 in Developmental and Educational Psychology. By offering critical insights and fostering discussions among researchers, educators, and practitioners, Contemporary Issues in Early Childhood remains an invaluable resource for those committed to enhancing early childhood practices and policies, influencing both theory and application in the United Kingdom and beyond.

Early Childhood Education Journal

Fostering Excellence in Early Childhood Education.
Publisher: SPRINGERISSN: 1082-3301Frequency: 8 issues/year

Early Childhood Education Journal is a premier scholarly publication dedicated to advancing the field of early childhood education through cutting-edge research and innovative practices. Published by Springer, this journal serves as a pivotal platform for educators, researchers, and policymakers interested in the developmental and educational psychology of young children. With an esteemed impact factor reflecting its significant influence, the journal ranks in the top quartile (Q1) for Education and in Q2 for Developmental and Educational Psychology, positioning it among the most respected avenues for scholarly exchange in these disciplines. The journal has been consistently publishing impactful research since its inception in 1995, fostering discussions that shape educational policies and practices globally. Although it maintains a subscription model, the accessibility of its research through esteemed databases ensures that vital knowledge reaches a broad audience, empowering practitioners and researchers alike to enhance educational outcomes for children. For those invested in the future of education, the Early Childhood Education Journal is an indispensable resource that bridges theory and practice.