This module aims to develop students understanding of the complexities of behaviour while working with young children. It will also provide students with the knowledge and skills to work effectively in a variety of settings which provide care and education for young children. Students will develop a comprehensive understanding of the practical and ethical issues which arise when encountering challenging behaviour. Furthermore students will develop critical thinking ability, critical self-reflection and synthesizing skills in order to work effectively building relationships based on sensitivity to children's needs and supporting children's emotional development.
Understanding Behaviour.
Historical and current approaches to behaviour.Defining, classifying & identifying the causes and functions of behaviour. Understanding the social context. Adverse childhood experiences
Building Relationships & positive interactions
Understanding the child's needs. Assessment and Intervention. Guidelines for understanding behaviour and communication. Using relationships to support positive interactions. Building self-confidence and self-esteem. Importance of parent-educator relationships – Social pedagogy
Supporting emotional regulation in the early years setting
Managing the environment. Creating appropriate contexts. Meeting all children’s emotional needs. Emotional literacy and regulation. Addressing particular behaviour difficulties
Role of educator in supporting positive interactions
The role of the practitioner in supporting positive interactions. Traditional and current models of response to behaviours that challenge. Reactive and proactive strategies. Training and resource issues around support systems. Infant & child mental health, Restorative practice
Assessing Outcomes
Measuring the success. Observation. Maintaining positive interactions.
Legal Ethical and Personal Issues
Legal, ethical and reflective issues: Ethical Issues: children’s rights. Reflective practice the importance of multi-disciplinary teamwork. Supporting other professionals. Inter-agency communication, cooperation and collaboration.
Lectures, group/collaborative work, and class discussion/debate. Reading journal articles, book chapters, reports and online materials.
| Module Content & Assessment | |
|---|---|
| Assessment Breakdown | % |
| Formal Examination | 60 |
| Other Assessment(s) | 40 |