Intellectual and Language Development of Young Children

Know the stages of intellectual and language development in young children

Additional details

Learners need to know the key stages of language and intellectual development. They do not require an in-depth knowledge at this stage as they will gain this if they move on to higher level qualifications. 

They should be able to provide some information on expected abilities at each of the key stages, giving examples of what a child developing normally can do (in terms of intellect and language) at each of the stages.

Assessment Criteria

• 1.1

  Describe the key stages of intellectual development in young children.

• 1.2

  Describe the key stages in language development in young children.

Know the main factors that can affect intellectual and language development of young children.

Additional details

Factors that can affect intellectual and language development may include:

• social and economic factors e.g. family involvement, sufficient income to provide for the child
• genetic factors e.g. may result in learning difficulties, long term illness
• health - food and exercise play an important role in the language and development of children, poor health may result in not being able to attend full time education
• environment e.g. quality of housing can provide a stimulating environment, parenting styles

Assessment Criteria

• 2.1
  Outline the main factors that can affect intellectual and language development in young children

Know how to support aspects of intellectual and language development in young children.

Communication between the carer and child is key to their development. Examples may include:

• ability to share and create ideas
• check understanding of concepts
• build vocabulary and complexity of sentences
• develop conversational skills

The care setting can support children by:

• providing appropriate equipment and materials
• interacting with children during play
• providing suitable activities e.g. storytelling session, problem solving activities
• observing the child and providing experiences that will meet their needs.

There are other examples that may be equally valid.

Assessment Criteria

• 3.1

  Identify why communication between children and carers is important to the language and intellectual development of young children.

• 3.2

  Outline examples of how intellectual and language development of young children can be supported in the care setting.