Rationale
Early Childhood Intervention is considered to be the key to helping young children and their families to thrive. This module explores policy and practice in relation to young children and their families, and the particular contribution of psychological and sociological perspectives for understanding the child and the family. Psychology also provides a rationale for a range of interventions. These are reviewed in the light of considerations of the holistic needs of children within an increasingly inclusive and culturally diverse society, and changing trends in supporting families.
The module is sometimes practical in orientation: paramount is the need for early years professionals to understand the individuality of families, in planning the delivery of child-centred, family focussed and contextually sensitive provision. Current theoretical and statutory frameworks are presented, and models for interdisciplinary and participatory partnership working. Students explore the interactions and connections between children and their families and service providers within the wider societal context. Students relate an understanding of family functioning and modes of working with children and families through reflection of their own personal/professional experiences and through analysis of case studies.