Explain_How_to_Monitor_Children_and_Young_People's_Development_Using_Different_Methods

A child’s development is initially monitored through screening. Edwards stated that a baseline check would consist of screening for cystic fibrosis by means of a heel prick, a hip test and hearing checks. These are the fore runners of t the routine child health surveillance programme (Edwards 2010). Whilst mothers are in hospital, they are given a red book and this holds all of a child’s health record. The red book is updated each time a health visitor sees the child and when the child is immunised. A baby is checked between every six-eight weeks, six-nine months, and eighteen- twenty four months and thirty nine- forty two months. Health visitors will see a child whenever its parents need advice. A child’s weight and general development are measured against a chart in order to ascertain a child is doing the things it should be doing for their age(Edward 2010). Once a child has contact with school, the school nurse will have an input on the health of the child, they can work injunction with the heath visitor and doctors. It is essential that anyone working with children can identify if a child is having any problems and that needs extra support. According to a number of researchers, observation is the key importance when it comes to monitoring children and young people (Smith et al, 2011). In my role as a support worker I continually assess the young people I am working with through the use of daily logs, keywork sessions and handovers. Visual observation is also a key element. A young persons appearance or change of mood can be indicators as to whether an element of risk maybe emerging in their lives. Interaction during shifts is very important any areas of concern that I have will be raised with my colleagues and my managers. Continued monitoring of a young persons development in a semi-independent unit is necessary in to identify those at risk or the potential of risk. Early intervention is crucial in reducing risk. Once a risk is identified it is important to involve the necessary agencies, parents and social workers involved that young person. Visits by social workers and outside agencies help to determine whether a young person is ready to move on from semi – independent.