Exploring Early Childhood

Board Endorsed Course

*Please note – Exploring Early Childhood cannot be included in the units of study required for gaining an ATAR as it is a Board Endorsed Course.

Course: Exploring Early Childhood Exclusions: Nil

Our society is increasingly recognising children’s experiences in the early childhood years as the foundation for future growth, development and learning. This course explores issues within an early childhood context and considers these in relation to the students themselves, their family and the community.

The study of this course will enable students to: • develop an awareness and understanding of the growth, development and learning of young children and the importance of the early childhood years • recognise the uniqueness of all children, including those who have special needs • become aware of the value of play in the lives of children, and consider means of providing safe and challenging environments for play • identify the range of services developed and provided for young children and their families • consider the role of family and community in the growth, development and learning of young children • reflect upon potential implications for themselves as adults, in relation to young children • understand and appreciate the diversity of cultures within Australia and the ways in which this influences children and families • become aware of the work opportunities available in the area of children’s services.

Course content Core Modules • Pregnancy and Childbirth • Child Growth and Development • Promoting Positive Behaviour Selection from the following optional modules: • Learning Experiences for Young Children • Play and the Developing Child • Starting School • Gender and Young Children • Children and Change • Children of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Communities • Historical and Cultural Contexts of Childhood • The Children's Services Industry • Young Children and Media • Young Children and the Law • Children's Literature • Food and Nutrition • Child Health and Safety • Young Children with Special Needs In Year 11 the students have a weekend practical experience with computerised “babies”. This gives students some real life experience at parenting. It is not a marked component of the course but is commented on in the reporting process.