Bridging psychological theory and educational practice, this is an innovative textbook on the emotional and social aspects of young people's development. Draws on Theory of Mind to explore the important yet often overlooked territory of social and emotional development into early adolescence Moves beyond tradition cognitivist representations of how children learn and grow, focusing on how to integrate the emotional, cognitive, moral, spiritual and social in young people's experiences Bridges the gap between theory and practice - analyses cutting edge research and translates it into culturally sensitive and developmentally appropriate strategies for future educational practice Includes unique material on socially withdrawn children, how children's concepts of silence within the classroom may be linked to self-growth, and young people's relationships with animals Accessibly structured for easy use in courses, with sections on research, future questions, key learning points, and "So What" boxes with implications for the classroom.