Free Level 2 Understanding Mental Health in the Early Years Course. Study online, at your own pace, without travelling to a centre. The course covers how early experiences shape brain development and affect children's mental health, learning, and relationships. You'll explore how to recognise and respond to disruptions in development, and how to support young children effectively. It typically takes 10 weeks to complete. This free understanding mental health in the early years course for adults is fully funded for eligible learners aged 19 and over.
Who this course is for
Our Understanding Mental Health in the Early Years free online course is a short and effective way to learn about the internal struggles that individuals can face during their development. Early experiences shape the architecture of brain development and lay the foundations of sound mental health. Disruptions to development can affect a child's ability to learn and relate to others. This course can help you discover how to deal with these disruptions and effectively support young children.
Entry requirements
Aged 19+ as of 31st August 2024. Lived in the EU for 3 years. Available fully funded. Do not hold the same qualification.
What you will learn
You'll understand how early experiences shape brain development and mental health foundations.
You'll identify factors that can disrupt a child's development and wellbeing.
You'll recognise signs of mental health difficulties in young children.
You'll explore strategies to support children experiencing emotional or developmental challenges.
You'll understand how mental health affects a child's ability to learn and form relationships.
You'll develop knowledge to communicate effectively with families and colleagues about children's mental health.
How you will learn
You'll study entirely online, working through course materials at your own pace. Assessment is through written assignments or knowledge-based questions completed online. There are no exams to sit in person. You submit your work digitally, and a tutor will review and mark it. CT Skills will confirm the exact assessment format before you start.
What you will need to bring
CT Skills will confirm anything you need before you start. You'll need access to a device with an internet connection to study and submit your work online.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Nursery practitioner: support children's wellbeing in a nursery setting.
Early years educator: work in nurseries, pre-schools, or children's centres.
Childcare worker: assist with the care and development of young children.
Teaching assistant: support children in primary school or early years classes.
Family support worker: help families with young children facing difficulties.
Play worker: lead play-based activities in early years or out-of-school settings.
What you could study next
Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Educator: the qualification recognised in statutory nursery staffing ratios. Required if you want to work as a qualified practitioner in a nursery.
Level 3 Award in Paediatric First Aid: often required alongside early years roles.
Level 3 Certificate in Understanding Autism: broadens your knowledge of additional needs in early years settings.
