Case Study

Chelsea is 5 years old and you have identified that her communication, speech and language development is delayed. You are aware of her home circumstances and the part that they play in her poor development. Chelsea is living with just her mother who is thought to have some learning difficulties and she leaves Chelsea for quite long periods of time with no interaction. Chelsea is a very 'good' child and does not demand attention when she really needs it. There is no immediate family close by to assist and her mother does not understand that she needs to be talking to and playing with Chelsea a lot more than she does. You know you will get little assistance from her mother to help her improve. You must, therefore, enlist the help of your colleagues.

1. What will you ask your colleagues to do to help Chelsea?
2. How will you explain to Chelsea’s mother the help you are giving her and why?
3. We often refer to a child as ‘good’ when they are undemanding and compliant, but why might this in some cases be detrimental to the well-being or suggest a development issue?

It is rare that there is just one way to respond to a scenario or situation, so do not consider that the response you have chosen to this scenario will be judged as right or wrong. Share your scenario with a work colleague and ask them to tell you if they think you have responded appropriately. Ask them to challenge your response if necessary. You do not need to submit this task for assessment unless asked to do so by your tutor.