Identify nurturing practices that support human growth and development.

Identification should include

  • the definition of the term nurturing
  • needs of children at each stage of growth and development
  • family environments and parental behaviors that support the growth and development of children, families, and communities
  • affirmations of unconditional love
  • actions derived from assertive/supportive care
  • age-appropriate play and parent-child activities
  • factors that influence self-esteem
  • communication strategies that promote positive self-esteem in children
  • the influence of stimulating environments on brain development
  • ways a child’s sense of security, ability to trust, personal initiative, and individual identity are influenced by parental relationships
  • consequences of punishment on the child/caregiver relationship. 

Process/Skill Questions

Thinking

  • Why is it important to know how to nurture children and adolescents?
  • Why do adolescents need as much parental support as younger children?
  • How is society affected by the structure and nurturing practices of a family system?
  • How has human growth and development been influenced by historical perspectives and theories (e.g., Bandura, Bowlby, Bronfenbrenner, Erikson, Gesell, Kohlberg, Maslow, Piaget, Skinner, Vygotsky)?

Communication

  • What messages do most parents want to send their children?
  • What are some physical signs of positive communication between parents and children?
  • How is communication between parents and young children similar to communication between parents and adolescents? How is it different?
  • How can communication enhance a child’s development?

Leadership

  • What problems are parents most likely to encounter with young children? With adolescents?
  • How can parents use the problem-solving process with children?
  • What conflict resolution skills do parents need to nurture children and adolescents?

Management

  • What information do parents need to support children in a particular stage of development?
  • What are some reliable sources of information about nurturing children and adolescents?
  • How can parents manage to provide quality time for family activities?