Credit Points 10

Coordinator Christine Taylor Opens in new window

Description This subject provides the student with knowledge of the theories of child development and the foundational knowledge and skills to be applied in the screening, surveillance and promotion of health and well-being of young children and families. This includes current immunisation schedules and use of evidence-based developmental screening tools. Content will focus on the normal physical, social and emotional growth and development of young children (0-5 years). The importance of the early years in brain development including infant-parent attachment will be linked to an exploration of child behaviour, sleep and settling, play and safety issues. The child and family health nurses’ role in supporting families experiencing infant sleep and settling difficulties and behaviour problems will be addressed. The knowledge gained in this subject will be consolidated through virtual clinical placement.

School Nursing & Midwifery

Discipline Mothercraft Nursing and Family and Child Health Nursing

Student Contribution Band HECS Band 1 10cp

Level Postgraduate Coursework Level 5 subject

Equivalent Subjects NURS 7009 - Child and Family Health Practice Supporting Growth and Development

Restrictions

Students must be enrolled in 4713 Master of Child and Family Health (Karitane), 4714 Graduate Diploma in Child and Family Health (Karitane) or 4715 Graduate Certificate in Child and Family Health (Karitane).

Assumed Knowledge

Students require basic knowledge of infant and child health at an undergraduate level, augmented with clinical experience as a general Registered Nurse or Registered Midwife.

Learning Outcomes

After successful completion of this subject, students will be able to: 

1. Critique the theories of child development and maternal /parent–infant attachment, applicable to child and family health practice.
2. Evaluate a child assessment using clinical judgement and evidence-based screening tools with consideration of parental concerns. 
3. Discuss how child and family community factors influence global child development and safe environments for children.
4. Synthesise evidence of contemporary issues for parents and children that impact promoting care and environments for children.
5. Communicate and collaborate appropriately, in traditional and digital, personal, and professional environments.

Subject Content

Module 1 - Child Growth and development

• Pregnancy- foetal growth and development
• Social and emotional development
• Language and communication
• Cognitive development
• Gross motor development
• Foundational theories and principles of child development. Including infant-parent attachment
• The importance of play in child development

Module 2 - Assessment and screening for growth and development

• Appropriate tools for child growth and development assessment
• Clinical skills for child growth and development assessment
• Clinical knowledge and skills to support families experiencing infant/child sleep and settling difficulties
• Common  well child concerns for parents
• Childhood behaviour
• Childhood Immunisation as a protective health measure