Social work and child development in the early and middle years (ages 0 to 11): Frontline Briefing (2024)
Introduction
This briefing and accompanying chart is aimed at frontline social work and family support practitioners. It focuses on key aspects of child development in children aged 0 to 11 years, with a particular emphasis on early childhood (0-5 years).
The briefing brings together long-established knowledge and understanding of child development with more recent evidence and insights to support an inclusive and equitable approach. This means interpreting each stage of development in relation to the specific circumstances of the individual child.
The aim is to:
- Help practitioners think about the extensive range of influences that may affect an individual child’s development.
- Support practitioners in their observations, direct work, referrals and recording.
The child development chart draws on different child development theories to show the ages at which key developmental milestones and stages typically occur.
Professional Standards
PQS:KSS - Child development | Child and family assessment | Developing excellent practitioners
PCF - Knowledge | Intervention and skills
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