This thoroughly researched study presents a rounded picture of childhood in the past, as revealed by archaeology and supplemented by the historical record.

Ranging widely, both geographically and chronologically, individual chapters examine: how the cherished child was brought up; children's education and the work to which they were put; relationships between parents and children and the rituals of child death; the treatment of children as divinities, in particular the child saints of medieval Europe; the exploitation and abuse of children; the rites of passage to adulthood.

Though written in an engaging, accessible style, this seminal work will be one of essential reference for the researches of future archaeologists.