Making sense of Brain Injury in the Early Years

Young children explore their world with energy and curiosity and often with little sense of danger.

It’s no surprise, then, that younger children are more vulnerable to head injuries. In fact, a major UK study found that over half of 5,700 children treated for head injuries were aged 0–5.

Many early years practitioners support children affected by these experiences without even realising it.

About the course

This online, self-directed CPD accredited course gives those working in early years settings the confidence to recognise, understand, and respond to childhood acquired brain injury in a sensitive and child-centred way. Through clear explanations, real-world examples, and practical guidance, you’ll learn:

how the brain develops in the early years
what childhood acquired brain injury is and the causes
common risk factors and signs to be aware of in everyday practice
how brain injury can affect a child’s learning, behaviour, communication and regulation
simple strategies to make your setting safer and reduce the risk of head injuries
practical approaches to support children and work in partnership with families

By completing the programme, you will strengthen your understanding of childhood brain injury and be able to use practical strategies that make a real difference in your everyday work with children and families. You will also be recognised as “Head Injury Aware” and will receive a certificate and resource pack.

If your early years setting would like to be awarded the Head Injury Aware status, at least one member of the senior leadership team and one other member of staff must complete the course.