Social, Emotional and Psychological Development of Young Children

Know key stages in the social, emotional and psychological development of young children.

Additional details

Learners are not expected to have an in-depth knowledge of the key stages of development in this area. They should be able to provide some information (this could take the form of examples) on what might be expected at each stage in a child who is developing normally.

Some of the social, emotional and psychological needs could include:

• to feel wanted and valued
• to be part of a group and able to share
• knowing the difference between right and wrong in different situations
• the ability to cope with changing situations, fears and anxieties
• feeling confident

Learners then need to give reasons for children needing to feel positive about themselves.

Assessment Criteria

• 1.1

  Identify the key stages in the social, emotional and psychological development of young children.

• 1.2

  Outline some social, emotional and psychological needs of young children.

• 1.3

  Give reasons why it is important that children feel positive about themselves.

Know the factors that can affect the behaviour of young children.

Additional details

Some of the factors that may affect behaviour include:

• the age and stage of development of the child e.g. 'terrible two's'
• setting unrealistic expectations
• multiple carers with different rules and boundaries
• illness, changing situations e.g. new baby in the family
• frustration

Assessment Criteria

• 2.1

  Give examples of different factors that can influence children’s behaviour.

Know ways to meet social, emotional and psychological needs in young children.

Additional details

Learners will provide ways of supporting children in these areas of development. Examples could include:

• the provision of appropriate play materials e.g. role play, clay, dough, physical equipment
• listening and responding appropriately
• become involved
• be a good role model

Examples to help children feel good about themselves may include:

• praising them
• recognising achievements
• involve them in decision making and give them choices
• set realistic and achievable goals

The examples given above are a sample. Tutors and learners will be able to identify equally valid examples. 

Assessment Criteria

• 3.1

  Outline ways to support the social, emotional and psychological needs of young children.

• 3.2

  Give examples of ways to encourage children to feel positive about themselves.