Increase your understanding of child development and children with additional needs with this free online course

Our early years shape our path to adulthood and caregivers play a vital role in ensuring our development goes smoothly. Whether you work with children, are a parent, or hope to have a family, this child development course will teach you about their progression and how best to support them through various stages of growth.

After birth, we all undergo similar physical, cognitive, social and emotional changes in the same order, but not necessarily at the same pace. This course will cover each stage, from the total dependency of infancy to complete independence. You will learn the key factors of healthy development, from nutrition to clothing, hygiene and safety. Child development is not only physical but also social and emotional. Part of a parent or caregiver’s role is to guide the child to integrate into society. You will learn how this may be supported by “early years provision” which encompasses education and care services.

Finally, you will learn about supporting children with additional needs, including physical disabilities, learning challenges and neurodevelopmental conditions like autism. As a spectrum disorder, autism affects children differently; some require minimal support, while others need significant help with communication and daily life. You will explore autism awareness, how traits may differ between boys and girls, the diagnosis process and support structures. Whether you are an educator, in childcare or a parent, this course will help you support children’s growth, regardless of their abilities. Enrol today to help make a difference.