XCUS-306 - Child Protection Specialist Professional Development Program - Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority

Course Description

Child Protection Specialist Professional Development Program (CPS Training) implemented in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority (ECA) addresses the identified needs for highly qualified child protection specialists with the ability to support children who may be experiencing maltreatment.  The goals of the program will guarantee a well-trained work force and provide a professional development system that is responsive to the needs of providers. The training curriculum that is the foundation of CPS Training reflects the specific needs of the Ministry of Community Development, the Early Childhood Authority, the Ministry of the Interior and the providers themselves.  The program focuses on the skills, knowledge, and dispositions needed to meet the competencies and international standards.

Professional Development Program (CPS Training) will provide foundational information necessary for child protection professionals to understand fully childhood abuse and neglect and its consequences for the child, family, and society. The training will address signs, characteristics, and types of child abuse and neglect, risk factors, and reporting policy and procedures all within the socio-cultural-legal context of Abu Dhabi, the UAE, and the Gulf region.

Course Objectives

Upon successful completion of the program, the participants will:

• Define child abuse and neglect;
• Describe children at risk for maltreatment including children with disabilities and behavioral health concerns;
• Explain the effects of child abuse and neglect on behavior, learning, and skill development;
• Explain the impact of adversity, trauma, and stress on children including brain development;
• Explain principles that influence the practice of child protection (family systems theory, socio-cultural framework, family centered care, social norms, systems of care, etc.);
• Identify the signs and characteristics of child abuse and neglect
• Follow all legal procedures to protect children from abuse or neglect
• Implement competently and confidently the roles of the Child Protection Specialist (Care Coordination, Family Interviewing, Reporting, Documentation, etc.)
• Describe and use the various systems available to support the roles of the Child protection Specialist (hotlines, etc.)