Child Development Diploma

Child Development Diploma

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.

The course comprises of a series of tutor marked assignment, a thesis and final online examination.

Module 1: Course introduction: genetics, embryology and foetal development

The first module looks at the history of child development in brief. Genetics, inheritance and sex determination are examined and explained. Embryology and the development of the integumentary system are also covered.

Module 2: Developmental anatomy and physiology of the child: Part 1

This module looks at the development of the musculoskeletal system, including bone and muscle structure, function and growth. Students will also deal with the development of the nervous system.

Module 3: Developmental anatomy and physiology of the child: Part 2

This section deals with the development of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, including structure, function, pre and post natal circulation and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

Module 4: Developmental anatomy and physiology of the child: Part 3

This unit deals with the development of the gastrointestinal and renal systems.

Module 5: Developmental anatomy and physiology of the child: Part 4

This module deals with the development of the reproductive, system, special senses and dentition.

Module 6: Birth and beyond: growth and care of the child

This module deals with the birth, how a child grows and develops. It also looks at nutrition, measurements and weight, together with childhood illness and vaccination programmes.

Module 7: Language and speech development

This module looks at how language and speech develops through categorization, memory storage and through copying.

Module 8: The development of cognitive skills

This module looks at cognitive structures, their development, and the resulting concepts. It also deals with relationships and interaction.

Module 9: Learning through play

Play is an integral part of child development. This module looks at why this is, and how structured play helps the mental and physical development processes.

Module 10: Working with children and course collation

This module looks at the practical aspects of working with children: responsibilities, legal requirements, first aid, appropriate levels of communication and recording etc.