What implications does "holistic development" have when you are observing and assessing development?
Development is holistic; it consists of interlinking areas. This means that the child’s development cannot be compartmentalized into social, emotional, physical, interlectual and communication development. All are interwoven in a child’s life and are developing simultaneously. Progress in one area affects progress in others. Similarly, when something goes wrong in any one of those areas, it has an impact on all the other areas.
Holistic development sees the child as a whole person, this means that the child is considered as a unique individual and their development is centered around their personal circumstances. The development of the child may be affected by many influences, eg family background, econonic circumstances, personal health, disabilites, special needs, previous experiences etc
This is important when you are observing because you can look at the development of the child as a whole and see what progress they are making (or not), as you are not concentrating on one particular area of development. You can get a much rounder view of the child's development and can see how all areas of development are interlinked and influence each other eg a child with speech difficulties (communication) may lack the confidence (emotional) to make friends (social). When observing a child at play you will see many areas of development taking place, for example a child playing with another child (communication, social) on the climbing frame (physical).
A holistic approach is important when assessing as you are able to assess the child as a whole person and understand what they have achieved and what they have not achieved by looking at how the developmental areas link up, and how progress in one area can affect progress in another area eg a child is able to use a knife and fork (physical) which leads to greater independence and increased self esteem (emotional). This approach is also important because it influences the planning of future activities involving the child which will help their development as a whole person and not just their development in one area.
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