In a social work practice that focuses on children, understanding the developmental stage and the learning theories for practice is important. For this discussion, we are focusing on the social development of children ages 3-5 years.
Respond to the following:
- Review the handout 40 Developmental Assets for Early Childhood. Discuss one external asset and one internal asset you experienced growing up that helped you to develop these assets.
- What is Social Learning Theory? How does this theory apply to the development of children?
- Use your research skills to find a book, game, or learning activity that is appropriate for a child ages 3-5 years old. Make sure the link is easily accessible to read.
- Explain the behavior(s) that is being taught or developed in the child. Why is this behavior appropriate at this developmental stage?
- Identify the learning theory that explains this method of social learning. What are the concepts of the theory that are demonstrated in this learning method?
- Discuss the level of cultural sensitivity of this book, game, or activity. What is included or needs to be included to address all children?
- Poverty, homelessness, ineffective discipline, divorce, and violence are all risks to healthy development in toddlerhood and early childhood. Discuss one of these risk factors and discuss a protective factor that can ameliorate the risk factor you selected.
