Explore the fascinating world of child psychology with our comprehensive course. From prenatal development to adolescence, delve into the intricate layers of children’s growth, behaviour, and cognition. Discover how groundbreaking insights from pioneers like Jean Piaget have revolutionised our understanding of childhood, highlighting the unique complexities and significance of nurturing young minds.
This course is thoughtfully structured into ten manageable units, each exploring key aspects of the field.
Accredited Level 3 Child Psychology Diploma Entry Requirement
Entry to this Accredited Level 3 Child Psychology Diploma requires that potential students must be aged 16 or over, and have gained GCSE/IGCSE or equivalent qualifications and have good English oral, reading and writing skills.
Advice on enrolment and guidance of prior learning (APL) can be obtained through our contact centre. The course is a rolling programme and can be started at any point in the year.
Assessment
The coursework is assessed through continuous assessment with no formal exit examinations.
Study Hours
Approximately: 200 hours of personal study time for the entire course is recommended. All of this is supported by our course tutor, who greatly encourages students to access support throughout their course.
Accredited Level 3 Child Psychology Diploma Course Length
1 Year.
Awarding Body
AccordAI
Progression
This Accredited Level 3 Child Psychology Diploma can be used to gain entry to a Level 4 Diploma or higher.
Course Content
Module 1: The History of Childhood in Britain
The initial module delves into the historical context of childhood in Britain, tracing shifts in societal perceptions and the evolving role of children, particularly influenced by events like the Industrial Revolution. The impact of factors such as family wealth and social status on children’s experiences is examined, with a timeline illustrating key developments. Tools for assessing the emergence of child psychology are provided, alongside personal reflections and case studies. Despite contemporary legal safeguards, the diverse experiences of childhood are explored comprehensively.
Module 2: Child Psychology Explained
In this module, the unique opportunities, expectations, and societal perspectives of children in contemporary society are explored. The objectives of child psychology within this context are examined, along with research methods tailored to children and ethical considerations. The module addresses why distinct methodologies are necessary for working with children despite the availability of general psychology techniques. It investigates the influence of child-rearing practices, legislation, and parental input on the development of children, as well as the long-term effects of these factors. The study of modern child psychology is contextualised within the historical development of the field.
Module 3: Child Development Part 1
The module delves into the nature-nurture debate, examining the impact of genetics versus environmental factors and life experiences on child development. Genetic inheritance and its role in shaping personality are discussed, emphasising that child development commences before birth. The influence of prenatal experiences and external factors on the developing child is explored, shedding light on inherited illnesses and behavioural traits passed down from parents.
Module 4: Child Development Part 2
The module examines the psychological implications of labor and childbirth for both mother and child. It delves into cognition, emphasising that babies are born with basic innate abilities but learn and develop as they grow. Early infancy is explored, focusing on factors influencing an infant’s understanding of the world. From biological influences on sensory perception to parental roles, various factors shaping early childhood development are discussed in detail, highlighting their significance in effective child psychology practices.
Module 5: How do children form relationships?
Children start their journey within their family, making the family system a significant focus of study. Childhood holds immense importance for social development and has long-term implications. The module explores relationship formation and attachment intricacies, drawing from Bowlby’s Attachment Theory. It underscores the pivotal role of early bonds, ideally formed before age two, rooted in fundamental needs for safety and sustenance. Attachment dynamics are analysed across different factors like age, social settings, and cultural backgrounds, offering a comprehensive perspective.
Module 6: The minds of children
The module delves into how children conceptualise, learn, and retain information, examining the processes of short- and long-term memory. It explores the significance of memory in child development, including prenatal memory influenced by sensory experiences. The discussion extends to critiquing theories of cognition, learning, and socialisation in child development, introducing core psychology concepts and skills within this framework.
Module 7: Emotional development in children
The module delves into emotional development during childhood, examining its biological and psychological significance. It considers various influences such as familial, peer, and direct experiences on emotional growth, addressing specific emotional states like anger and their behavioural implications. Additionally, it explores the concept of the “self” and its role in shaping children’s identities. The discussion encompasses factors contributing to differences in children’s confidence levels and their desire for social acceptance, including gender variances in emotional expression and the impact of group dynamics on development.
Module 8: Cognitive development
Cognition, the mental process of acquiring knowledge and understanding, is explored through Piaget’s and Vygotsky’s developmental theories. Piaget’s stages of child development, rooted in self-initiated discovery, are contrasted with Vygotsky’s emphasis on social interaction and cultural influences. Through critical analysis, this module delves into how these theories shape our understanding of children’s cognitive development.
Module 9: Language development
Spoken language stands as a fundamental mode of human communication, with this module exploring its anatomy, biology, physiology, and acquisition. It also delves into alternative forms of communication like social interaction and nonverbal cues. Through examining the diversity and role of language in society, the module evaluates its impact on child development and psychology, particularly in terms of acquisition and learning.
Module 10: The adolescent child
The last module examines the transition from childhood to adulthood, focusing on the physical and psychological aspects of adolescence. Topics include gender awareness, puberty, hormonal changes, and reproduction, along with their impacts on individuality and emerging adulthood. Key changes and issues like self-esteem, confidence, and self-worth are explored, alongside consequential possibilities such as aggression, shyness, peer pressure, and relationships. The module concludes with a concise overview and summary of the entire course.
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