Course Description

This course explores issues within an early childhood context and considers these in relation to the students themselves, their family and the community.

The study of this course will enable students:

• Develop an awareness and understanding of the growth, development and learning of young children

• Recognise the uniqueness of all children, including those who have special needs

• Become aware of the value of play in the lives of children and consider means of providing safe and challenging environments for play.

• Identify the range of services developed and provided for young children and their families.

• Understand and appreciate the diversity of cultures within Australia and the ways in which this influences children and families.

This course has a theoretical and practical component. Practical activities include caring for a “virtual reality” baby doll, creating a variety of play activities. The purpose of this interaction is to observe children and to gain experience in understanding and relating to individual children.