This book documents the early lives of almost 19,000 children born in the UK at the start of the 21st century, and their families. It is the first time that analysis of data from the hugely important Millennium Cohort Study, a longitudinal study following the progress of the children and their families, has been drawn together in a single volume. The unrivalled data is examined here to address important policy and scientific issues. The book is also the first in a series of publications that will report on the children's lives at different stages of their development. The fascinating range of findings presented here is strengthened by comparison with data on earlier generations. This has enabled the authors to assess the impact of a wide range of policies on the life courses of a new generation, including policies on child health, parenting, childcare and social exclusion. Babies of the new millennium (title tbc) is the product of an exciting collaboration from experts across a wide range of health and social science fields. The result is a unique and authoritative analysis of family life and early childhood in the UK that cuts across old disciplinary boundaries. It is essential reading for academics, students and researchers in the health and social sciences. It will also be a useful resource for policy makers and practitioners who are interested in childhood, child development, child poverty, child health, childcare and family policy.

About the Author
Shirley Dex is Professor of Longitudinal Social Research at the Institute of Education, University of London. Heather Joshi is Director of the ESRC Centre for Longitudinal Studies at the Institute of Education, University of London and also Director of the Millennium Cohort Study.

Reviews
"... this study is valuable not only in its own right, but because it is also able to draw on earlier studies begun in 1946, 1958 and 1970 and make comparisons. ... this book is a useful compendium of information." Children Now Magazine
" ... the book is a useful teaching and information resource, in its clear data reporting of the initial sweep of the MCS." Social Policy



Book Information
ISBN 9781861346889
Author Shirley Dex
Format Paperback
Page Count 296
Imprint Policy Press
Publisher Bristol University Press