Child Development Observation Paper

Words: 1949
Pages: 8

This observation will be analysed according to child development psychology and theoretical perspectives. Containing theoretical perspectives are crucial in analysing data as they may influence “the approach of professionals at the threshold of important decisions, such as the need to educate in a special school or to be looked after in a residential setting” (Greig et al., 2007, p.18). For example, TC was assessed by a psychologist which of course used the DSM-V and as a result of his diagnosis with autism, he had been advised to be put in an autism based preschool, in order to give him the best learning possible in accordance to his needs and stages of development.

The aim of this observation was to observe TC’s over-all development with a focus on his interests and strengths which he portrays in the setting. I have observed TC for three hours using the time sampling method. It is important to bear in mind that TC is on the autism spectrum, diagnosed since the age of three and is currently in an autism preschool for what is now his second year. Autism is a pervasive developmental disorder, with symptoms and severity varying among people (Kring 2012). It is a unique disorder which is characterized by significant deficits in social and communication skills with rigid and repetitive behaviours (Howlin 1998 cited in
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However, it appears that TC likes to wonder around alone and does not interact with his peers; he would play parallel to them but not with them. This would be seriously concerning for a typical child. However according to the DSM-V (cited in Kring 2012), Autism features a deficit in social communication and interactions. Areas which are severely delayed include their pretend play and symbolic development (Empson et al., 2004,