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Caring for Vulnerable Children

Most FutureLearn courses run multiple times. Every run of a course has a set start date but you can join it and work through it after it starts. Find out more This course will be suitable if you: You can use the hashtag #FLChildren to talk about this course on social media.

Topics Covered

What is meant and understood by the term vulnerability and risk?
Assessing risk in various scenarios: exploring the links between poverty and risk and examine how risk is portrayed by the media and government
Exploring theories of attachment and child development
Examining developmental theories around the concept of containment
Important considerations when communicating with children
The power of touch and some of the problems associated with touch
Elements and characteristics of child care practice
Love and other important aspects of caring for vulnerable children?
The challenge of caring for children in a risk averse context
The Children’s Hearings System in Scotland explained
Debates on the subject of care in today’s society
Will the future bring changes in the way we care for vulnerable young people?
have no direct experience of the child care field, but want to develop your career towards it;
have recently entered the field and have little experience;
have some experience and are interested in developing your qualifications further;
find it difficult to access opportunities for training and development.

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Reviews summary

Understanding care for vulnerable children

According to learners, this course offers a strong foundation and valuable perspectives on the complex topic of caring for vulnerable children. Many found the content sensitive and thought-provoking, particularly praising the exploration of different vulnerabilities and the link between poverty and risk. Students appreciated the theoretical concepts like attachment and containment, finding them essential for understanding child development. While some felt the course provided practical insights, a few reviewers noted it is more focused on theoretical understanding than hands-on techniques, suggesting it serves better as an introductory or supplementary resource. Overall, it is described as an important and well-structured course, although the emotional weight of the material can be significant.

More theory than practical hands-on skills.

"It gave me a good overview, less on 'how-to'."

"This course is more about understanding the issues."

"Don't expect practical intervention techniques."

"I see it as foundational rather than skills-based."

Covers many facets of vulnerability and risk.

"The course covers a wide range of vulnerabilities."

"I learned about risk assessment in different contexts."

"Explores links between poverty and risk effectively."

"It addresses media portrayal and policy aspects too."

Provides essential theoretical understanding.

"It provided a good foundation in the theories."

"Understanding attachment theory was particularly helpful."

"The concepts like containment are well explained and crucial."

"I feel I have a much better theoretical grasp now."

Content is sensitive, relevant, and important.

"This course covers a truly sensitive and important topic."

"Thank you for making this important topic accessible."

"It's a very relevant course for anyone working with children."

"I found the content deeply moving and important."

Content can be heavy and emotionally draining.

"Be prepared, the subject matter is very emotional."

"I found some parts quite difficult to process emotionally."

"It requires sensitivity and self-care while studying."

"The real-life scenarios are powerful but sad."

Career center

Learners who complete Caring for Vulnerable Children will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Reading list

We've selected 50 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Caring for Vulnerable Children.

Handbook of Attachment

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This comprehensive handbook is considered a state-of-the-science reference in the field. It covers the origins of the theory, cutting-edge research, and clinical applications. It is an invaluable resource for deepening understanding and exploring contemporary topics. Often used as a textbook in graduate programs and by professionals.

Caring for Vulnerable Children

Topics Covered

Topics Covered

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Reviews summary

Understanding care for vulnerable children

Career center

Reading list

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