Transform Your Understanding with Diploma in Child Psychology and Development
The OSHAA 30-Hours Diploma in Child Psychology and Development is a comprehensive training programme designed to provide a clear understanding of how children think, feel, and behave at different stages of growth. This course explores key psychological principles related to emotional, cognitive, social, and behavioural development from early childhood through adolescence. It is ideal for individuals who work with children or support their wellbeing in educational, care, or community settings. The programme is not Ofqual regulated, but it is structured to deliver practical, relevant knowledge that supports safe, ethical, and developmentally appropriate interactions with children.
Throughout the course, learners develop insight into factors that influence child development, including family environment, learning experiences, emotional support, and social interaction. The curriculum focuses on recognising developmental milestones, understanding behavioural patterns, and responding appropriately to children’s needs. Emphasis is placed on practical application, helping participants build confidence in observing behaviour, supporting emotional wellbeing, and promoting positive development. This diploma also aligns well with a range of professional certifications and diplomas in childcare, education support, early years practice, and youth development, enhancing professional credibility within child-focused roles.
OSHAA 30-Hours Diploma in Child Psychology and Development provides a strong foundation for individuals seeking to enhance their professional profile in child-related fields. While the course is not Ofqual regulated, it is valued for its focused content and applied learning approach. It complements various international certifications and professional diplomas related to child care, learning support, safeguarding, and developmental wellbeing. By completing this programme, participants strengthen their understanding of child behaviour and development, enabling them to contribute more effectively to nurturing, supportive, and developmentally informed environments for children.
Program Highlights
Study Units
- Introduction to Child Psychology and Developmental Theories (3 Hours)
- Cognitive Development from Infancy to Adolescence (3 Hours)
- Emotional and Social Development in Children (3 Hours)
- Behavioural Patterns and Influencing Factors (3 Hours)
- Language Acquisition and Communication Skills Development (3 Hours)
- Impact of Family, School, and Social Environments on Child Development (3 Hours)
- Identifying Developmental Delays and Special Needs (4 Hours)
- Early Intervention and Support Strategies (3 Hours)
- Observation, Assessment, and Record-Keeping in Child Psychology (3 Hours)
- Ethical and Professional Practices in Working with Children (2 Hours)
The OSHAA 30-Hours Diploma in Child Psychology and Development is designed to be accessible to a wide range of learners who have an interest in understanding child behaviour and development. The entry requirements are flexible and focus on ensuring participants can engage effectively with the course content.
- Age Requirements: Learners are generally expected to be at least 18 years of age at the time of enrolment, ensuring an appropriate level of maturity when studying child development and psychological concepts.
- Educational Background: There are no strict academic prerequisites for this course. A basic secondary school education is recommended. Individuals who hold or are pursuing related diplomas or certificates—such as childcare certificates, early years education diplomas, teaching assistant qualifications, safeguarding training, or child care and development certificates—may find the course particularly relevant.
- Language Proficiency: Participants should have a basic to intermediate level of proficiency in the language of instruction to understand course materials, participate in learning activities, and complete assessments effectively.
- Work Experience: Prior work experience is not mandatory. The course is suitable for both newcomers and those already working in childcare, education, health, or community support roles.
Overall, these entry requirements ensure the course remains inclusive while supporting effective learning and meaningful engagement with child psychology and development principles.
Learning Outcomes
Introduction to Child Psychology and Developmental Theories (3 Hours)
• Explain the key concepts, scope, and significance of child psychology.
• Compare and contrast major developmental theories and their applications.
• Recognise the stages of child growth and psychological development.
Cognitive Development from Infancy to Adolescence (3 Hours)
• Describe the stages of cognitive development and related milestones.
• Analyse how thinking, problem-solving, and learning abilities evolve in children.
• Apply developmental models to understand variations in cognitive growth.
Emotional and Social Development in Children (3 Hours)
• Identify emotional growth stages and socialisation processes in children.
• Examine the influence of relationships on emotional well-being.
• Recognise signs of emotional or social difficulties in various age groups.
Behavioural Patterns and Influencing Factors (3 Hours)
• Describe common behavioural patterns in childhood and adolescence.
• Analyse the impact of genetics, environment, and life experiences on behaviour.
• Identify strategies to address challenging behaviours constructively.
Language Acquisition and Communication Skills Development (3 Hours)
• Explain stages of language acquisition from early speech to advanced communication.
• Assess the role of interaction, play, and environment in language development.
• Recognise indicators of speech or communication delays.
Impact of Family, School, and Social Environments on Child Development (3 Hours)
• Analyse the role of family structure, parenting styles, and school environments in child development.
• Evaluate the effects of peer influence and community support systems.
• Identify ways to foster positive developmental outcomes through supportive environments.
Identifying Developmental Delays and Special Needs (4 Hours)
• Recognise signs of developmental delays in cognitive, emotional, or physical domains.
• Differentiate between various special needs conditions and their implications.
• Outline referral procedures and support pathways for children with special needs.
Early Intervention and Support Strategies (3 Hours)
• Explain the principles of early intervention in child development.
• Apply techniques to support children with developmental or behavioural challenges.
• Assess the effectiveness of targeted developmental support strategies.
Observation, Assessment, and Record-Keeping in Child Psychology (3 Hours)
• Demonstrate methods for observing and documenting child behaviour.
• Apply assessment tools to evaluate developmental progress.
• Maintain accurate and ethical records in line with professional standards.
Ethical and Professional Practices in Working with Children (2 Hours)
• Explain ethical responsibilities in child psychology and development work.
• Apply safeguarding and child protection principles.
• Maintain professional boundaries and confidentiality in practice.
The OSHAA 30-Hours Diploma in Child Psychology and Development is designed for individuals who want to understand how children grow, think, and behave, and who play a role in supporting children’s emotional, social, and developmental wellbeing in different settings.
Childcare and Early Years Practitioners
• Nursery and preschool staff working with young children
• Early years practitioners supporting developmental milestones
• Childcare workers involved in daily care and supervision
• Playgroup and day-care professionals
• Staff focused on creating safe and nurturing environments
Teachers and Education Support Professionals
• Teaching assistants supporting children in classrooms
• Classroom aides working closely with learners
• School support staff involved in behaviour management
• Learning support workers assisting children with diverse needs
• Education professionals seeking better child engagement
Parents, Guardians, and Family Caregivers
• Parents wanting deeper insight into child behaviour
• Guardians supporting children’s emotional development
• Foster carers working with children from varied backgrounds
• Family caregivers involved in daily learning support
• Individuals strengthening parenting and caregiving skills
Health, Social Care, and Community Workers
• Support workers involved in child and family services
• Community workers delivering child-focused programmes
• Youth workers supporting emotional wellbeing
• Care staff assisting vulnerable or at-risk children
• Professionals promoting child welfare and protection
Individuals Aspiring to Work with Children
• Learners interested in child psychology and development
• Individuals exploring child-focused career pathways
• Career changers moving into childcare or education settings
• Volunteers working with children in community projects
• People seeking structured knowledge of child development
Professionals in Child-Centred Organisations
• Staff working in charities supporting children and families
• NGO personnel involved in child wellbeing initiatives
• Programme coordinators managing child development projects
• Advocacy workers supporting children’s rights and welfare
• Organisational staff creating supportive child environments
Overall, this course is suitable for anyone involved in caring for, educating, or supporting children who wants to build strong knowledge of child psychology and development and contribute positively to healthy, safe, and nurturing environments for children.
