Human Development and Family Studies

About this unit

This unit applies knowledge of human development to services for people across the life span. It covers the care and education of young children in the early years, and the institutions and programmes that support children, youth and the elderly, especially those in difficult circumstances.

Key ideas

• The early years (birth to about eight years) are a period of rapid brain growth and lay the foundation for later learning.
• Early childhood care and education (ECCE) combines health, nutrition, care, play and early learning.
• Play-based, child-centred and developmentally appropriate practices suit young children.
• Children without family care need protection through adoption, foster care, children's homes or family-like villages.
• Youth need opportunities for skills, leadership and service; the elderly need health care, security and dignity.
• Managing an institution involves planning, organising, staffing, directing, coordinating and evaluating.

How to prepare

• Learn the meaning and components of ECCE and the types of support services for each age group.
• Revise key programmes and helplines, such as ICDS and the child helpline 1098.
• Practise case-based questions that ask which service or approach fits a child or older person's needs.