Childhood Social, Legal & Health Studies

Book excerpt: A guide to the Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) setting with a particular focus on social-, legal- and health-related issues within an Irish context. Discusses the emergence of the childcare profession and the legislation and policies that shaped its transformation, from pre-regulation times to the present day. Links child protection thinking and concepts directly to childcare practice, through the use of case studies and activities, to encourage understanding and good practice. Summarises current research into and guidelines for equality and diversity practice, focusing on their application in an ECCE setting. Defines child health and well-being and discusses them in the context of current policy, legislation, research and Siolta standards. Describes and applies to practice the role of the advanced early years practitioner and their professional development, using self-reflection and key interpersonal skills exercises. Case studies and 'In Practice' examples throughout illustrate the relationship between concepts and practice. WRITTEN FOR QQI Level 6 Early Childhood Care and Education (6M2007) and the following modules: 6N1945 Childhood Social, Legal & Health Studies 6N1944 Early Childhood Curriculum 6N1945 Supervision in Early Childhood Care 6N1946 Work Experience 6N1947 Work Practice