Participants explore human development from prenatal stages through middle childhood and study the interrelationships among social, emotional, physical and cognitive development, with a focus on the role of play in early childhood. Using observational techniques, the class identifies developmentally appropriate characteristics and activities.

Learning Outcomes

At the conclusion of the course, you should be able to

• Describe the influence of various social contexts on development including family, school, childcare, the media, and culture
• Discuss some views consistent with current knowledge and research in child development, based upon several current issues in child development
• Observe, record, analyze and compare children’s behavior and relate it to course materials on development
• Identify the major milestones in child development from birth through adolescence in social, emotional, cognitive and physical development

Topics Include

• Examining the relationships of the child to their family, community, and culture.
• Learning about expected behavior and growth patterns of infants through adolescence.
• To study the social, emotional, intellectual, and physical development of the child from conception through adolescence.
• Observing, recording, analyzing and comparing children’s behavior and relating it to course materials on development.
• Recognize and appraise the influence of various social contexts on development including family, school, childcare, the media, and culture.
• Examine the significance of various statuses and characteristics such as gender, disabilities and socioeconomic status on children’s development.

Additional Information

Students must have the required textbook for the first class meeting.