Developmental Theory and CYC Practice with Children

 The following global ideas guide the design and delivery of this course:

• An understanding of the dominant theories of human growth and development of children is fundamental to professional child and youth care.
• Child and youth care workers use theories of human growth and development in practice situations frequently. The ability to think critically about the theory they are using in a situation and the ability to apply more than one theory in a situation deepens the understanding of the child. Child and youth care workers may also be in situations where other professionals are applying developmental theory to practice. Being able to think critically about the theory being applied allows the child and youth care worker to participate in the discussion and offer alternate theories when required.
• Human growth and development does not occur in a vacuum. Development is the result of the interaction between nature and nurture, genetics and the environment. An understanding of the ecological perspective is critical to effective child and youth care work.
• Child and youth care workers are also developing human beings who will have their own perspectives on key developmental events in their own lives and in the lives of their siblings, peers and parents. As they develop their own understanding of significant developmental themes in their own lives, they will become clearer about the developmental growth and change of others.
• Child and youth care workers write reports on the children with whom they work. These reports are read by other professionals and may be subpoenaed by the courts. It is critical that these reports be thoughtful and accurate and supports the best interests of the child. Similarly, child and youth care workers will participate in conferences on the children and youth. Effective, thoughtful, informed verbal communication is a significant professional skill.
• Child and youth care practitioners work in teams, often several different teams, in the course of a work week. The ability to effectively participate in teams and discuss developmental issues in the lives of the children with whom they work, and to do so with professionals who may have different perspectives than those of the CYC practitioner, is a reality of professional life. Learning how to discuss ideas and remain focused on the best needs of the child is a challenge and a necessity.