HEALTH

EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT - YEAR 11 HEALTH AND HUMAN DEVELOPMENT

Units 1&2 Health has been a highlight this year, especially with the childhood development area of study. We learnt about developmental milestones, areas of development and pregnancy. Apart from captivating classroom lessons and discussions, the unit exposed us to many new and enjoyable experiences such as a simulated robotic baby, kindergarten visit, having children visit the classroom with their favourite toys and having an assessment task of making a toy for a child aged 2-5 years.

The excursion was my favourite part of this area of study. The Year 11 Health & Human Development cohort went to a local kindergarten, and we got to enter, take notes and learn about different aged kindergarten rooms. Being able to interact and play with the kids whilst learning and taking part in discussions with my peers gave me insight into what I would do for my own toy project and incentivised me to be more empathetic and conscious of what it takes to raise and take care of a child. 

In addition to the kindergarten excursion, we had the privilege of having two children between the ages 2 and 5 years old visit our classroom. This was a great opportunity to engage closely with these young learners, gaining insight into their behaviours, needs and key developmental stages. Our interactions highlighted the importance of early socialisation, language development and emotional growth. We realised that providing a child with the appropriate environment, plays a crucial role in laying the foundation for a child’s milestone development as they grow up.

Designing a toy for a child aged 2-5 as part of our assessment was a fascinating and enriching experience. It not only required creativity but also a deep understanding of child development. When constructing these toys, we had to consider how they would contribute to help improve the child's developmental milestones. It involved careful thinking about aspects such as motor skills, cognitive development, and emotional well-being. Ultimately, it was a fulfilling experience that emphasised the power of play in shaping a child's early developmental years.

Overall, our time learning about early childhood development illuminated the profound significance of these foundational years of a child’s life. It emphasises the vital role of providing enriching environments and tools that facilitate learning through activities like play. Overall, it was an incredible opportunity to learn and develop an understanding of early childhood development. It was a highlight of our learning in Health and Human Development this year!

Alexa Levin, Lucas O’Donoghue & Elinor Roif

Year 11 Students