Students will examine the complex relationships between the child, family and the community. Theory and practice will be emphasized which are relevant to helping parents and other family members work with their child. Students will explore their own attitudes, beliefs and values as they are shaped by their life circumstances and become aware of how these impact on themselves as Early Childhood Educators. Students will learn the signs and symptoms for the three types of abuse (physical, emotional, and sexual) and the four types of neglect (physical, neglect, emotional, and educational). The course content includes safety of the child, legal responsibilities and the process used when a suspected case has been reported.