This text uses a chronological organization to teach principles of development and encourages readers to reflect on their own personal experience of development.

The authors believe that development follows a transactional approach where the process of human development is shaped by the continuous interplay, or transactions, between individuals and their environments. Exploring Child Development stresses the dynamic role of the environment, as well as biology and culture, in the developmental context. The theme of diversity is interwoven throughout the text. Critical thinking is also stressed. Though the text is research based, the tone is warm and personal with plenty of examples to which students can relate.