1st Edition

The Importance of Aesthetic Development in Early Childhood Research, Theory and Practice

Edited By Georgina Barton, Vicki Christopher, Susanne Garvis Copyright 2026
176 Pages 41 B/W Illustrations
by Routledge

176 Pages 41 B/W Illustrations
by Routledge

176 Pages 41 B/W Illustrations
by Routledge

Based on empirical evidence from authentic classroom data, this book promotes the value of aesthetic development in early childhood from a range of perspectives across the curriculum. Aesthetic development is crucial for the growth and learning of young children. Learning about aesthetics supports children’s compassionate view of themselves, others and the world around them. Using Housen’s... Read more

List of Contributors

1. Aesthetic Development in Early Childhood: Exploring Multiple Theories

Georgina Barton, Vicki Christopher and Susanne Garvis

 

2. Aesthetic Development in Early Childhood Education: A Scoping Literature Review

Georgina Barton, Anh Hai (Leah) Le, Vicki Christopher and Susanne Garvis

 

3. Listening with Children in Nature: Witnessing Aesthetic Encounters and the Relational Building of Meaning

Alison (Ali) L. Black

 

4. Scaffolding Creativity: Learning and Social Orientation in Aesthetic Learning Environment in Finnish ECE Toddlers’ Groups

Jonna Kangas, Teemu Nikkola and Jyrki Reunamo

 

5. Putting to Work Contrasting Theories to Further Understand Childhood ‘Aesthetic Becoming’ Through the Arts as Enactments in Home Settings

Susan Chapman and Pamela Burnard

 

6. How I Learn: Teaching Aesthetics Through Sustainability

Marthy Watson

 

7. Using the 4C Model for Aesthetic Development in Early Years Learning: A Case Study in a Rural School

Georgina Barton and Melissa Fanshawe

 

8. Aesthetic Encounters in Nature: Cognitive & Non-Cognitive Dimensions of Environmental Aesthetics in Early Childhood

Vicki Christopher and Claire Warden

 

9. Same Degree, Different Pedagogies? Framing the Pedagogical Elements and Reflecting the Aesthetic Dimensions of Finnish UAS

Paula Santapakka, Heidi Harju-Luukkainen and Jonna Kangas

 

10. Final Reflection: Cultivating Aesthetic Flourishing in the Early Years

Georgina Barton, Susanne Garvis and Vicki Christopher

 

Index

Biography

Georgina Barton is Professor at the University of Southern Queensland, Australia. Her research primarily focuses on literacy, the arts, aesthetics and well-being. She has over 180 publications and has led several projects in Australia and internationally. Georgina conducts her research alongside students and teachers in schools or learners in the community.

Vicki Christopher is Lecturer of Early Childhood Education at the University of Southern Queensland, Australia. Her research focuses on early childhood learning environments, play, social justice, nature immersion and child voice. She strongly advocates for young children to be valued and respected and to have their voices represented in decision-making for – and discussion of – issues relating to them.

Susanne Garvis is Professor of Early Childhood Education in the Griffith Institute for Educational Research, Griffith University, Australia. Her research focuses on quality improvement, learning and pedagogical approaches within early childhood education. She has led many national and international projects and worked in both Australia and Sweden.