Child Development Level 3 Course

This Child Development Level 3 Diploma course is designed to present students with a comprehensive basic knowledge of child development from pre-conception to seven years of age. The course deals with cognitive processes such as language and speech development, social skills, and behaviour. The psycho-social issues, together with other external influences on development are included in order to enhance understanding of the factors affecting behaviour.

The developmental stages of anatomy and physiology for each body system are presented as chronological processes to follow this timeline, thus facilitating understanding of the changes that occur during the physical and mental development of children. In addition, learning through play and interactive educational concepts are examined

This course is aimed at those with a keen interest in the topic, and also for anyone wishing to work with children on a more formal basis.

Course summary

Unit 1: Pregnancy
Unit 2: Parenthood
Unit 3: Development of the Child
Unit 4: Diet, Health and Care of the Child
Unit 5: Support for the parent and child

Course content
Unit 1: Pregnancy

Knowledge of the female reproductive system and the role and importance of the baby’s support systems.
The causes of infertility and how some link to choices in contraception and healthy lifestyle
The different forms of contraception and to gain an understanding of the importance of a healthy lifestyle and the known benefits to mother and child.
How genetically inherited diseases can be managed and the range of support available.
The possible signs and symptoms of pregnancy and miscarriage and other common problems in pregnancy.
The importance of a healthy lifestyle and regular health checks and the role of various health professionals during pregnancy
The importance of the birth plan and to acquire the ability to assess the strengths and weaknesses of home and hospital delivery.
The signs and stages of labour, and an appreciation of the role of the birth partner during labour.
The wide range of pain relief options and the importance of considering and preparing for these prior to the birth.
The medical assistance available during labour to safeguard the health of mother and baby.
The health checks required following the birth of the baby and the specialist equipment and support available.
The possible causes for babies crying and the range of solutions available.
The practical steps that can be taken to prevent SIDS and an appreciation of the role of technology. Knowledge of postnatal care and the important role of the health visitor.
The impact of a new baby on the family and the potential sources of stress and changes in lifestyle.
The impact for a mother following the birth of her baby and the potential for postnatal depression.

Unit 2: Parenthood

The changing nature of the family in today’s society and the strengths and potential difficulties of different family types.
The impact on a child’s development where there is change to the family structure or environment.
The range of sources of stress and its impact on parenting capacity and the resultant impact on a child’s development.
The realities of planning for a family and the competing pressures on families in today’s society.
The essential equipment and clothing needed for a baby and the safety, financial and environmental issues which need to be considered.
The ability to undertake a ‘risk assessment’ within the home, assess potential dangers and hazards and how to minimise risk.
Acquire the necessary skills to undertake basic first aid and treatment of minor injuries.

Unit 3: Development of the Child

The concept of a child’s developmental milestones and factors which can have a positive or detrimental impact on their development.
The factors that influence a child’s development and what children need to safeguard and promote their welfare.
Knowledge and understanding of both gross and fine motor skills.

Intellectual Development

How a child’s development is influenced by genes and how much by upbringing – nature versus nurture, and the stimulation and emotional support needed to promote a child’s welfare.
A child’s cognitive development and the activities needed to encourage intellectual development and the stages of concept development.
A child’s verbal and non verbal communication skills and how to develop these skills.

Social and Emotional Development

The factors that influence a child’s social and emotional development both within the family and from external stimuli.
A child’s emotional development and how to promote resilience and self esteem
The importance of play in a child’s social development and factors that influence behaviours including a child’s sense of right and wrong.
The importance of fairness and consistency in a child’s development, and acquiring the skills to respond to unwanted behaviours.

Learning and Play

The links between play and learning in order to support a child’s social, emotional, intellectual and physical development.
The different types of play and the learning and play materials available based on the child’s intellectual capacity including the effective use of technology.

Unit 4: Diet, health and care of the child

The nutritional needs for under-5s and ability to critically analyse food content from labelling and other forms of advertising.
The nutritional and emotional benefits of breast feeding and balancing these with the advantages and disadvantages of bottle feeding for both parents and baby.
Sterilisation techniques and the methods of food preparation and an understanding of the nutritional content of homemade versus commercially produced baby foods in order to develop healthy eating habits.
The ‘behaviours’ behind food refusal in young children.
The role of parents in understanding the nutritional needs of under- 5s and the links to health related illnesses.
Food allergies and food intolerance.
The importance of hygiene and appropriate clothing. 
The impact of family and environmental factors on the well-being of children and what they need to safeguard and protect their welfare.
The symptoms of childhood diseases and the support services available and the importance of immunisation programmes.

Unit 5: Support for the parent and child

The types of child care support available and an understanding of the factors that influence choice.
The potential benefits and disadvantages of in-home care v nursery group care for both parents and children.
Educational and developmental provision.
The importance and relevance of the Early Years Stage Curriculum and the six areas of learning and their links to a child’s development.
The value of partnership working.
Knowledge of Sure Start and Book Start programmes.
The role of health visitors in undertaking developmental testing.
The effects on the family of children with a special need and the support provided by social services in the provision of services for children in need and their families.
Knowledge of the statutory legal requirements for the education of under-5s and how these are monitored.

There are no previous skills or qualifications required to register for this study programme.

This course is open to students of all ages and backgrounds. Enrolments can be taken at anytime of the year unlike the traditional local college who tend only to enrol in September. Home Learning offers true flexibility. Enrol today by calling us on 0121 2880181 and be studying within 7 days!

Level 3 Child Development Award

This is a fully accredited and recognised award. See our qualifications page for further details

 

Course Fee: Starting at: £329.00