FCSC 2121 Child Development

The student will assess various societal and cultural influences on the growth and development of children during the early childhood period.  Emphasis will be placed on the period from conception to age eleven.  The student will observe infants, toddlers, preschoolers and primary grade children for a total of 30 hours during the semester in order to relate theory to the actual behavior of children.  Prerequisite: Current DFS or criminal background check.  (3 lect.)

Credits

3 credits

Major Topics

• Theories, theorists, and methods of study
• Prenatal development and birth
• Physical, cognitive and psychosocial development

Outcomes

In order to successfully complete this course, the student will:

Discuss the history of the study of early childhood development.

Describe the contributions of contemporary theorists including the cognitive, psychosocial, humanistic, maturationist, constructivist, and behavioral views to the study of child development.

Demonstrate appropriate strategies for observing children.

Determine factors involved in optimal prenatal care and development.

Describe the basic sequence of the birth process, complications, and family adjustments following birth.

Discuss the stages of early childhood development with a focus on the prenatal period through the age of eleven.

Explain the factors and influences on the growth and development of the psychosocial, physical and cognitive aspects of a child.

Apply course concepts in observing children for a total of 30 hours over the course of the semester.