Free Level 2 Understanding Mental Health in the Early Years Course. Study online. You work through the course at your own pace, fitting study around your existing commitments. Over 7 weeks, you'll explore how attachment, adverse childhood experiences, and early environments shape children's mental health from birth to five. You'll look at the statutory requirements for early years settings and the key role practitioners play in supporting children's emotional wellbeing. There are no previous qualifications required to enrol.
Who this course is for
This course is ideal for anyone working with or caring for young children, particularly in early years settings. It's designed for early years practitioners, teaching assistants, nursery staff, childminders, or those aspiring to enter the childcare sector. If you're passionate about supporting children's mental health and emotional wellbeing from an early age and want to understand the impact of attachment and early experiences, this course will give you the knowledge and confidence to make a meaningful difference.
Entry requirements
There are no previous qualifications required to complete this qualification. This is an entry level qualification aimed to build your skills and knowledge.
What you will learn
You'll understand how early experiences influence the mental health and wellbeing of children from birth to five.
You'll explore the significance of attachment and how it shapes children's emotional development.
You'll learn what adverse childhood experiences are and how they can affect young children.
You'll understand the statutory requirements for supporting mental health in early years settings.
You'll examine the role of the key worker in supporting children's mental health day to day.
You'll develop knowledge of how to promote emotional wellbeing within an early years environment.
How you will learn
You'll study through an online learning platform, working through three units at your own pace over 7 weeks. A subject specialist tutor supports you throughout. Assessment deadlines are shown in the platform once you're enrolled. The three units cover mental health for young children, the significance of attachment and adverse childhood experiences, and the role of the early years practitioner in supporting wellbeing.
What you will need to bring
You'll need access to a device with an internet connection to use the online learning platform. Learning Curve will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Nursery practitioner: support children's wellbeing in a nursery setting.
Nursery assistant: assist qualified staff with daily childcare and learning.
Childminder: provide home-based childcare with a focus on development.
Teaching assistant: support children in early years or primary school classes.
Early years keyworker: take a lead role in individual children's welfare.
Playworker: plan and supervise play sessions for young children.
What you could study next
Level 3 Award in Paediatric First Aid: often required for early years roles and complements this qualification.
Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Educator: the main qualification for those working toward a senior practitioner role in nursery settings.
Level 3 Certificate in Understanding Safeguarding and Prevent: builds on child welfare knowledge for those working in childcare or education.
