Understanding Childhood Illnesses

If you care for babies or young children in a personal or professional capacity, it is crucial that you have a good understanding of childhood illnesses. This includes understanding why babies and children may become unwell, being able to spot the signs of a developing illness and knowing what to do in these situations.

Candidates begin this course by learning about a wide range of infectious illnesses that babies and young children are particularly vulnerable to and the precautions that can be taken to reduce the chances of children developing an infectious illness or spreading it to others in an early years setting. As well as infectious illnesses, candidates will also look at other conditions that can make a child unwell or distressed, such as asthma, diabetes, epilepsy and food allergies.

The course concludes by looking at accidents and incidents that commonly involve babies and young children, such as bumps to the head (and possible concussion), burns and scalds and choking, focusing upon the actions staff should take in these situations to safeguard a child in their care.

This fully funded open learning course is FREE to all Scottish residents.