Orphans and Vulnerable Children - CRIN

Introduction and Objectives for Topic 3

Children below the age of 18 are growing mentally, emotionally and socially as they progress towards

adulthood. What happens during this time of development and what a child experiences, greatly

influences that child’s future well-being. Growth and development are largely influenced by the

environmental and psychosocial support, or lack of support, a child may experience.

In this section, participants will learn about how children develop physically, mentally and emotionally;

and why it is important for children to have their developmental needs addressed adequately, so that

they can grow up to be well-adjusted adults.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this topic, participants will be able to:

 Explain the meaning of growth and development in children.

 Discuss the changes that occur when a child is growing.

 Discuss indicators that show that a child is developing and functioning well.

 Discuss factors that influence how a child experiences and understands the world.

 Explain the role of communities in ensuring proper growth and development in children.

(^160) Unit 2, Module 2 Guide to Mobilising and Strengthening Community-Led Care for Orphans and Vulnerable Children