Leaders in Distance Learning

Professional Diploma in Child Coaching

Course synopsis

This course is designed for those who are considering becoming a child coach. This is a field which is less than fifteen years old, despite having historic origins that span more than a century. The course will cover definitions, standards and models in child coaching as well as examining the core principles and concepts which enable the successful establishment of a child-coach collaborative and positive relationship. Because of the vulnerability of children and the need for different or alternative methods of communication, there will be some material covering child development both physically and psychologically, parent-child relationships and how children learn and shape behaviour through different forms of communication. Unlike adult coaching techniques, when working with children one has to employ flexible methods, and these may be through creative mediums and other 'hands' on strategies.

The course consists of six modules, each carrying their own assignment. On completion of the course and assignments, students will be required to complete a 5000 word extended essay question.

Modules

Module 1: Beginnings
Module 2: How children learn and respond
Module 3: Communication and specialist coaching skills
Module 4; Special considerations
Module 5: Changes
Module 6: Consolidation and processes

Module1: Beginnings

This module introduces child coaching, its uses and contexts. A presentation and discussion of the psychological development of children (up to the age of 18), and integration of relevant physical aspects will be given.

Module2: How children learn and respond

In order to effectively communicate with children we need to have an understanding and knowledge of how they learn and assimilate what they hear, feel, see and perceive in their world. This module will discuss these processes and it will aid programme design and effective use of appropriate communication models and techniques.

Module 3: Communication and specialist coaching skills

This module deals with listening and congruence; how children react and respond within different contexts and situations. The module will also explore and discuss some of the specialist coaching skills needed when working with children.

Module 4: Special considerations

This module deals with ethical issues when working with children, such as consent, criminal records documentation, professional codes of conduct and working with vulnerable groups. It will also address issues of coaching responsibilities and how a successful collaborative relationship can be built and maintained with children of all ages.

Module 5: Changes

This looks at some of the reasons that children come for coaching. They may be shy and unable to 'fit' in with their peer group; they may need to achieve more in terms of education, sport, etc. The reasons for attending may be complex and even involve family situations such as divorce, separation or loss. All these issues will be examined in this module.

Module 6: Consolidation and processes

This brings the whole process together and looks at it from assessment to closure of the programme. In addition some example documents and templates for communication models will be given.

Online Enrolment