An introduction to the child, from birth to age eight, as a learner and family member with needs to explore and communicate, as well as to develop social competence. Explanation of current themes of child development is provided with special emphasis on understanding children'92s developmental levels through childhood. Topics covered include: conception, heredity and prenatal development, infant development, the child in the family, toddlerhood and early childhood. Observation in a childcare center or preschool setting is a requirement of this course.