Module Overview

Professional Practice: Supporting Children and Families in Early Years

This module will focus on the knowledge, skills and values required of early years educators to work collaboratively with families and communities within a diverse range of early years settings. This module aims to introduce the learner to the theories and principles of practice underpinning working with families and communities and to build on their ongoing development as reflective early years educators.

Module Code

ECEC H2026

ECTS Credits

5

*Curricular information is subject to change

Theoretical frameworks

Relevant theoretical frameworks including Resilience theory, Bio-ecological Systems theory, Family Systems theory, Family Life Cycle and Family Stress Model.

Legislation and policies

Aistear (2009); Siolta (2006); Diversity, Equality and Inclusion Guidelines (2016); UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (1989); Child Care Act (1991); The Quality Framework on ECEC in Europe (2014); OECD Starting Strong (2012); Better Outcomes Brighter Futures (2014), First 5 A Whole Government Strategy for Babies, Young Children and their Families (2018).

Family support interventions

Practice principles of family support including prevention & early intervention to include evidence-based research. The importance of building collaborative relationships with babies, children and families. Exploring intergenerational Learning.Maintain relevant records in early years practiceProfessional practice relating to maintaining the relevant records in early years practice. Professional boundaries and confidentiality.The role of the early years educator in ECEC settings; Effective and appropriate relationships with colleagues and other professionals. Professional boundaries; confidentiality. Code of Professional Responsibilities and Code of Ethics for Early Years Educators (2020).

Documenting Children’s learning aged birth to six years

Making visible children’s learning and interests through a range of child-centred approaches that build on their competencies. Documenting children’s meaning through moments of sustained shared thinking that include the voice of the child.

Reflection on Practice

Reflection; self-awareness and self-care. Implement reflective practice in the context of ECEC.

 

Students are required to reflect on their placement experiential learning and look at how these experiences relate to the theoretical aspects of this module. There are opportunities for group work where students can share and discuss their reflections and learning.

Module Content & Assessment
Assessment Breakdown %
Other Assessment(s)100