Essential knowledge: The candidate must be able to demonstrate essential knowledge required to effectively do the task outlined in elements and performance criteria of this unit, manage the task and manage contingencies in the context of the identified work role These include knowledge of: Models and theories for working with parents Issues affecting fathers, mothers, caregivers and families of very young children, including first time parents Good understanding of child development and corresponding needs of babies and very young children including key social, physical, psychological, cognitive and emotional development General health and well being of babies including sleep, nutrition, stimulation, settling Basic understanding of current theories of roles of fathers, mothers and caregivers including infant attachment theory and what this looks like and the impact of good attachment on child development Awareness of the impact of culture on parenting and parenting styles, including an appreciation of potential issues of working cross culturally with parents Paternal and maternal post-natal depression, affects and ways of addressing these Group skills and group dynamics Dynamics of intimate relationships Models of conflict resolution and mediation The nature of domestic and family violence and child abuse including key indicators and effects. The key indicators, nature and impact on infants and children of personal issues such as alcoholism, gambling, mental health and other issues that could potentially impact on the health and development of marriages, families and relationships Knowledge of legal parameters for working with clients experiencing sexual, physical and emotional abuse, mental health issues Complex interpersonal interactions, power in relationships, abuse and conflict Knowledge and application of ethical behaviour and legal frameworks for relationship work Appropriate sources or referrals and ways in which these can be accessed Agency/organisation standards and procedures in relation to referral and dealing with specific relationship issues Self and how experience, biases, values and beliefs may impact on ability to work effectively with various client groups Limitations and boundaries of practitioner role within the context of their responsibilities within and agency/organisation Understanding of a wide range of client groups and cultural diversity including same sex couples Organisation policy and procedures |