Starting a career in Childcare or in the Early Learning and Care Sector can be challenging without having a comprehensive understanding of child development and the factors that affect it. So in this article, we will take a quick look at some of the factors that we discuss in our comprehensive ELC programme that can impact child development .
Genetics
We all begin life as a single cell, in which our genetic code is contained. The cell nucleus contains chromosomes made up of DNA. Our genes are made up of pieces of DNA. Genes are the basic building blocks of heredity. Genes are pieces of DNA and contain all hereditary information. Humans have approximately 25,000 genes. Genetic material comes from both parents. In our “factors affecting the development of children” session, we will take a closer look at genotypes and phenotypes, the interaction between genes, genotypes, environmental factors, and prenatal development.
Genetic Abnormalities
There is a range of genetic abnormalities that can occur due to the unequal division of chromosomes. In some cases, when babies are born with an abnormal number of chromosomes, the result is some type of syndrome with a set of distinguishing characteristics; for example, Down’s syndrome, fragile X syndrome, and Turner syndrome. In factors affecting development, you will also examine gene-linked abnormalities such as cystic fibrosis and sickle cell anemia, and evaluate how these conditions can affect a child and their lifestyle.
Teratology
Teratology is the study of factors that cause birth defects. A teratogen is anything that can potentially cause a birth defect or have a negative impact on any area of the child’s development. Some teratogens include:
- Prescription and non-prescription drugs,
- Caffeine,
- Alcohol.
Social, Cultural and Environmental Factors
While studying on our ELC programme you will examine in further detail social, cultural, and environmental factors that affect child development, including:
- Social disadvantage,
- Access to medical care,
- Parent’s attitudes to prenatal care.
Many factors cannot be physically seen but manifest themselves in the child’s behaviour. In our 5C21526 Early Childhood Growth and Development Level 5 Module and our 6C21519 The Developing Child Level 6 Module, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of all factors that affect behaviour and development of a child. So, for more information
