“[The authors'] emphasis on applications to educational context is accompanied and supported by traditionally important and contemporary theories and research....The theoretical and practical implications of the materials discussed in the text will enhance educators' pedagogical knowledge of how to be effective teachers.”

—PsycCRITIQUES (on the first edition)


“I will continue to require this 'must-have' text in my courses. Each chapter interweaves key topics in development with important research and makes direct connections to classroom practice. This is one of the very few texts that situate foundational information in a clear classroom setting. My teacher candidates have a wide range of experience with child development, and this text is useful for learners of all levels. The format is engaging and challenging; every chapter promotes conversation and offers opportunities for further investigation. The second edition features updated research throughout and includes valuable new content on neuroscience, gender, and other topics.”

—Nicole Merino, PhD, School of Education, Stanford University


“The second edition of this outstanding text captures major biological, cognitive, social learning, and sociocultural research advances since the first edition. An especially relevant addition is the expanded chapter on contemporary mental health issues facing families and youth, such as the impact of school climate for students of different gender identities and efforts to deal with new forms of cyberbullying and peer pressure. Throughout the text, interesting developmental and educational studies are used to demonstrate how ideas are evaluated in the lab, clinic, and classroom. Instructors who use this text will ensure students leave with a comprehensive understanding of critical developmental concepts and their implications for school routines and educational practices.”

—Gloria E. Miller, PhD, Endowed Professor in Literacy, Morgridge College of Education, University of Denver


“I've just found the next textbook for my Child and Adolescent Development class. McCormick and Scherer have accomplished a substantial feat: clarifying the theories and issues in child development in accessible language that does not compromise depth or accuracy. Intended for students with little or no experience in developmental psychology, the book carries readers into the theoretical world without losing touch with the on-the-ground school lives of children. The bibliographic sources are rich and deep, drawing on historically significant work as well as up-to-date research. The very definition of an excellent resource!”

—Diane E. Beals, EdD, Department of Education, University of Tulsa


“The second edition includes current research and informative new content, and continues to be a great fit for graduate-level teacher education programs. It is well organized and easy to read, even for those new to developmental theory. The text succinctly covers important theories and concepts relevant for understanding children’s development in order to be a successful teacher, with helpful examples provided throughout.”

—Alan B. Bates, PhD, School of Teaching and Learning, Illinois State University


“For my Child Growth and Development course, which is required for candidates in our education programs, I needed a text that addresses the topic from a teacher's perspective. This book is exactly what I was looking for. My students have commented on the usefulness of the teacher implications in each chapter, as well as the readability of the book as a whole. I advise my students to save this text as a resource for future use when they become practitioners.”

—Beth Hammond, PhD, Department of Education, University of South Carolina Beaufort