Child Development in the Family Context

The purpose of this unit of study is to help students explore child development within the child’s family, culture, and environment.

Nurses working in partnership with infants, children, and their families must have in-depth knowledge and understanding of a child’s physical, emotional, cognitive, and social development and the influences on their development in the early years. This knowledge assists nurses in promoting and strengthening the relationship between young children and their support networks, therefore enabling the attachment process, a fundamental element in healthy development.

Central to the role of a nurse working with young children and families is acquiring growth and developmental assessment skills. Assessing, screening, and monitoring a child’s development throughout the early years provides a good foundation for person-centred health promotion and facilitates early intervention when developmental issues are detected.

Students studying this Unit will consolidate their theoretical learning through a 40-hour professional experience placement in a child and family health setting.

Term : JANUARY, JULY

Hours of Study: 150

Credit Points : 6