PROFESSIONAL DIPLOMA IN CHILD PSYCHOLOGY AND EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT
PROGRAMME DURATION: 6 MONTHS
TOTAL GUIDED LEARNING HOURS: 144 HOURS
MODE: WEEKDAYS / WEEKENDS
PROGRAMME OVERVIEW
The Diploma in Child Psychology and Early Childhood Development aims to provide learners with a comprehensive understanding of children’s psychological, emotional, social, cognitive, and physical development from infancy through early childhood. The programme equips learners with the knowledge and practical skills required to support children’s wellbeing, learning, development, and safeguarding while promoting positive partnerships with families and communities. It prepares learners for professional roles in early childhood settings and provides a foundation for further study in child psychology, education, and child development.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
Upon successful completion of the programme, learners will be able to:
- Explain key theories and principles of child psychology and development.
- Analyse children’s cognitive, emotional, social, and behavioural development across different stages.
- Identify factors that influence children’s learning, wellbeing, and development.
- Recognise common behavioural and mental health challenges affecting children.
- Apply child-centred approaches to support learning and development.
- Demonstrate understanding of safeguarding and child protection responsibilities.
MODULE 1: FOUNDATIONS OF CHILD PSYCHOLOGY
DURATION- (18 Hours)
Units
- Introduction to Child Psychology
- Major Theories of Child Development
- Understanding Children’s Behaviour
- Nature vs Nurture
- Brain Development in Early Childhood
- Factors Influencing Child Development
Assessment
- Written Assignment
- Child Behaviour Observation Report
MODULE 2: CHILD GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT
DURATION- (18 Hours)
Units
- Physical Development from Birth to Childhood
- Cognitive Development and Learning
- Language Development
- Developmental Milestones
- Individual Differences in Development
- Monitoring Child Development
Assessment
- Developmental Milestone Case Study
- Short Written Test
MODULE 3: EMOTIONAL AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT
DURATION – (18 Hours)
Units
- Emotional Development in Children
- Attachment and Bonding
- Self-Esteem and Confidence Building
- Social Skills Development
- Peer Relationships and Friendships
- Managing Emotional Challenges
Assessment:
- Case Study Analysis
- Group Presentation
MODULE 4: CHILD BEHAVIOUR AND MENTAL HEALTH
DURATION- (18 Hours)
Units
- Understanding Child Behaviour
- Behaviour Management Strategies
- Anxiety and Stress in Children
- Emotional and Behavioural Difficulties
- Positive Behaviour Support
- Mental Health Awareness in Childhood
Assessment
- Behaviour Intervention Plan
- Scenario-Based Assessment
MODULE 5: EARLY CHILDHOOD LEARNING AND DEVELOPMENT
DURATION – (18 Hours)
Units
- Principles of Early Childhood Education
- Learning Through Play
- Creativity and Cognitive Development
- Supporting Literacy and Numeracy
- Inclusive Learning Environments
- Promoting Holistic Development
Assessment
- Learning Activity Design Project
- Reflective Journal
MODULE 6: SAFEGUARDING AND CHILD PROTECTION
DURATION – (18 Hours)
Units
- Safeguarding Principles
- Child Protection Responsibilities
- Recognising Signs of Abuse and Neglect
- Reporting and Referral Procedures
- Creating Safe Learning Environments
- Professional Boundaries and Ethics
Assessment
- Safeguarding Case Study
- Knowledge Assessment
MODULE 7: WORKING WITH FAMILIES AND COMMUNITIES
DURATION – (18 Hours)
Units
- Family Dynamics and Child Development
- Parent–Practitioner Partnerships
- Supporting Diverse Families
- Community Resources and Support Services
- Communication with Families
- Collaborative Working Practices
Assessment
- Family Support Plan
- Presentation
MODULE 8: PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE AND CAPSTONE PROJECT
DURATION – (18 Hours)
Units:
• Professional Standards in Child Development
• Observation Techniques and Record Keeping
• Ethical Practice and Confidentiality
• Reflective Practice
• Child Development Case Study Planning
• Capstone Project Preparation and Presentation
Assessment:
- Child Development Observation and Case Study Project
- Learners are required to conduct a structured observation of a child (with appropriate parental/guardian consent where applicable) and prepare a professional case study report.
The project should include:
• Child profile (anonymous and confidential)
• Developmental stage analysis
• Physical development observations
• Cognitive development observations
• Emotional development observations
• Social development observations
• Learning and behavioural observations
• Strengths and developmental needs
• Recommendations to support the child’s development
• Reflection on the observation process
Final Presentation
Learners will deliver a 10–15-minute presentation summarising their findings, analysis, and recommendations.
Assessment Weighting:
- Written Case Study Report – 70%
- Oral Presentation – 30%
ASSESSMENT STRUCTURE
Component
Weight
Module Assignments
25%
Case Studies and Practical Tasks
25%
Observation Reports and Reflective Journals
15%
Presentations
10%
Child Development Capstone Project
15%
Participation and Attendance
10%
Total
100%
ASSESSMENT GRADING CRITERIA
- 0 – 39: (Repeat Examination Required)
- 40 – 59: Pass
- 60 – 74: Merit
- 75 and Above: Distinction
Course Locations
Kandy Branch
337/1 Katugastota Road, Kandy
(Mawilmada Junction – 1st Floor, Pizza Hut Building)
Negombo Branch:
12, Thaladuwa First Lane, Negombo
(Behind the Negombo Central Bus Stand)