This book provides a critical review of research into how children come to understand the social world, an area often known as children's "theories of mind".

Takes an integrated approach to the development of children's social understanding
Brings out the connections between mental state understanding and children's understanding of language, social skills, morality and emotions.
Sets research within a historical and theoretical context
Contributes unique insights and perspectives, particularly in its discussions of Piaget and Vygotsky, and in its Wittgensteinian focus on the role of language.