Growth and Development of Young Children

Overview

Framework:
RQF
Level:
Level 1
Unit No:
F/601/3408
Credits:
2
Guided learning hours:
18 hours

Assessment Guidance

N/A

Aim

This unit provides an introduction to the growth and development of young children. The learner will also consider equipment and materials that help to promote each area of development.

For the full unit details, please download the latest version of the qualification specification. This is available for download on the relevant qualifications page.

Unit Learning Outcomes

To view the assessment criteria and any additional content, please expand the relevant learning outcome below.

1 — Know about factors which influence growth and development of children from birth to 5 years 11 months.

Additional details

Learners are not expected to have an in-depth knowledge of children's growth and development however they do need to know the key patterns and stages. 

Factors that may influence growth and development could include:


  • health, exercise and diet
  • social and economic factors
  • genetic factors
  • the environment e.g. quality of housing

Learners should know the importance of diet and exercise for growth and development. Reasons may include:


  • giving the body the nutrients it needs to grow and development 
  • strengthens bones
  • gives flexibility to and strengthens muscles
  • improves concentration and learning
  • helps to protect against long term illness

Assessment Criteria

  • 1.1
    Outline the patterns and stages of growth for children from birth to 5 years 11 months.
  • 1.2
    Identify factors which influence growth and development from birth to 5 years 11 months.
  • 1.3
    State the importance of diet and exercise for children’s growth and development.
2 — Know how to support growth and development of children.

Additional details

Learners need to identify different ways to promote each area of development. There are a wide range of examples. Those given below are a sample:


  • physical development - balls of different sizes; sport equipment e.g. bats, bikes, scooters; mark making materials e.g. pencils, chalk, paints; team games
  • communication and language skills - role play; books, telling stories and rhymes; puppets; drawing, painting, model making
  • social development - role play; playing in pairs and small groups; playing board or team games where they need to take turns

Assessment Criteria

  • 2.1
    Identify activities which promote children’s physical development.
  • 2.2
    Outline ways to help children to develop communication and language skills.
  • 2.3
    Describe ways to encourage children to play socially.