Men, Masculinities and Teaching in Early Childhood Education

This book addresses the global ‘feminised’ pattern of gender and teaching where men are in a minority, especially in work with younger children. Leading contributors raise critical questions about men’s continuing reluctance to engage in this type of work, the construction of masculinities, the influence of public debates, fears about ‘dangerous men’, and the connection with homophobia.

This wide-ranging and exhaustively researched text adopts a critical approach to the weary prescription that we need more men to be male role models. Bringing a refreshing and positive set of perspectives to this debate, the contributors argue that the greater involvement of men within teaching and associated caring professions has the potential to transform gender relations for future generations. Chapters also consider whether it matters that men are less engaged than women in the professional work associated with bringing up the next generation.