Child Studies

Child Studies explores the broad range of social, environmental, genetic and cultural factors that influence pre-natal development and a child’s sense of wellbeing and belonging between 0 and 8 years of age. Child Studies will assist students to understand the significant impact of the child’s environment and the role that the child and others can take in the active construction of this environment. Learning in Child Studies will promote in students a sense of empathy for children, their parents, caregivers and those that have the potential to influence the learning environments. Study of this course will support young people engaged in voluntary caring, supervision and child support roles and in formal work opportunities such as childcare and education.

Child Studies may be studied for 100-hour or 200-hours. Satisfactory completion of Child Studies will be recorded with a grade on the student’s Record of School Achievement.

The course includes modules selected from the following list:

· Preparing for parenthood

· Conception to birth

· Family interactions

· Newborn care

· Growth and development

· Play and the developing child

· Health and safety in childhood

· Food and nutrition in childhood

· Children and culture

· Media and technology in childhood

· Aboriginal cultures and childhood

· The diverse needs of children

· Childcare services and career opportunities

Throughout the course students will develop:

· knowledge and understanding of child development from preconception through to and including the early years

· knowledge, understanding and skills required to positively influence the growth, development and wellbeing of children

· knowledge and understanding of external factors that support the growth, development and wellbeing of children

· skills in researching, communicating and evaluating issues related to child development

Students will value and appreciate:

· the role positive parenting and caring has on a child’s sense of belonging and their health and wellbeing

· the positive impact that significant others play in the growth and development of children.