Introduction
This course is tailored for individuals currently working with children aged 0-5 years or those aspiring to start a career in childcare. The course covers a range of common illnesses that affect babies and young children, teaching you how to identify symptoms and manage the impact of these illnesses. Divided into several units, this course offers a comprehensive understanding of how illnesses manifest and progress in young children.
Learners will have access to online learning platform.
During your time with the Dumfries & Galloway College, support is always available whenever you need it. Each learner is paired with a dedicated personal tutor who will grade all assignments and provide comprehensive feedback for every submission.
Course code
OCCI
Location
Remote Learning
Duration
Guided Learning Hours – 138 hours
On average, learners take 8 – 12 weeks to complete
Entry Requirements
Suitable for those learners aged 19 or above and have a good level of communication skills.
You can only study one course at a time.
Important Notice for All Course Attendees To attend and complete the course, you must bring valid photographic identification. Acceptable forms of ID include:
- A valid UK passport
- A full or provisional UK driving licence
Please note:
Failure to present a valid photo ID on the day may result in you being unable to complete the course.
This requirement is part of our compliance procedures and is essential for verifying participant identity.
Thank you for your cooperation.
Course Content
This course is split into 4 manageable units:
Unit 1 – Principles of Safe and Healthy Environments for Babies and Young Children
This unit will help you understand the different types of infections and how they vary. You’ll learn about the conditions necessary for bacteria to thrive and where these conditions can be easily created. The unit will also cover how infections are transmitted, differentiating between direct and indirect transmission.
You will explore ways to improve hygiene practices, including personal hygiene, cleaning protocols, and environmental measures. Emphasis will be placed on effective handwashing techniques, and how you can encourage young children to practice proper hand hygiene.
The unit also covers the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to prevent the spread of infection. You will learn the correct procedures for handling and disposing of waste, including waste that contains bodily fluids. Finally, the unit will guide you on safely sterilising feeding equipment and preparing formula for babies up to 12 months old.
Unit 2 – Understanding Health Emergencies and Health Conditions in Early Years Settings
In this unit, you will gain an understanding of the potential accidents and health conditions that may arise in early years settings, along with your role in managing these situations. You will begin by studying the five most common causes of unintentional harm in early years settings and learn how to respond to some of the most frequent accidents, such as head bruising, minor burns or scalds, and choking.
You will also explore the management of both acute and chronic health conditions in young children. The unit will define and differentiate between acute and chronic conditions and delve into managing conditions such as asthma, epilepsy, eczema, and diabetes. You will learn to recognise and address acute complications of chronic conditions and understand the importance of partnering with parents, carers, and healthcare professionals to ensure effective management.
Additionally, the unit covers food intolerances and common allergies in childcare, detailing symptoms of allergic reactions and appropriate treatment methods to prevent harm.
Unit 3 – Policies and Procedures Relating to Safe and Healthy Environments for Babies and Young Children
This unit will focus on how legislation guides the creation of safe and healthy environments in early years settings. You’ll explore various policies and procedures that ensure a safe environment, including those designed to protect children with known allergies. The unit also covers the importance of properly recording healthcare treatments provided to children.
You will learn about the statutory guidance that must be followed in early years settings, particularly in relation to serious accidents and notifiable diseases. Additionally, the unit will cover how accidents should be recorded and reported according to legal requirements.
The importance of health initiatives for babies, young children, and their families will also be discussed.
Unit 4 – Knowledge of Common Childhood Illnesses
In this final unit, you will explore a range of common illnesses that affect young children. The unit will teach you to identify the signs and symptoms of both mild and serious illness in babies and young children. You’ll learn about the causes, symptoms, and management of common childhood illnesses.
You will also be introduced to the various sources of information and support available regarding childhood illnesses. The unit will further explore the needs of an unwell child and how to meet these needs as an early years practitioner, ensuring their comfort and well-being during illness.
Assessments
This course requires the completion and passing of four tutor marked online unit assessments. Learners are allocated a course tutor who will mark assessments and are able to offer support through the online learning platform.
Additional funding information
This course is fully funded for Scotland residents only for a limited time
Course Contact Details
openlearning@dumgal.ac.uk
01387 734233