About this course
This course equips childcare workers, foster care providers, youth workers, and professionals with the knowledge and practical strategies to recognize developmental stages and milestones, identify potential delays, and support healthy development in children and adolescents. Learners will explore the four main stages of development, key milestones across physical, cognitive, social/emotional, and personality domains, and evidence-based approaches for inclusive, ethical, and effective practice.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this course, learners will be able to:
- Describe the four main stages of child and youth development and their typical age ranges
- Identify key physical, cognitive, social/emotional, and personality milestones for each stage
- Recognize common causes and signs of developmental delays, including the impact of trauma and inconsistent caregiving
- Apply practical strategies to support children and youth at different developmental levels, including those with delays or disabilities
- Adapt communication, expectations, and interventions to meet individual needs
- Understand the importance of attachment, consistent caregiving, and positive reinforcement
- Acknowledge the influence of cultural, socioeconomic, and individual differences