SECD Open Access now available in BC

Photo by Gift Habeshaw on Unsplash

The BC government has opted to offer universal, free open access to the Science of Early Development (SECD) resources for anyone resident in the province. You can find the access instructions at: https://www.scienceofecd.com/pages/openaccess

The Science of Early Development (SECD) online resource bank, which has the advantage of enabling continuous updating, offers resources for use:

·       For your own professional development, by delving into a variety of early years topics.

·       For staff training, by selecting topics for staff meeting to encourage critical thinking and discussion.

·       For parent education, by showing the video examples to parents/clients.

·       For classes and workshops, by projecting and discussing the information in face-to-face sessions.

·       For online teaching by having students access the resources as their “textbook”.

SECD is a knowledge translation and mobilization initiative with a global perspective that introduces and synthesizes transdisciplinary research underscoring the importance of the early years. Resource Kit

SECD online living textbooks consist of five modules, that provide an overview, examples of research and links to practice:

·       Brain Development: The Brain Development module provides basic understanding of the interplay of genes and early environments which shape children’s development and influences them throughout life.

·       Coping and Competence: This module is about how children develop from complete dependency to being able to cope with the world around them, relate to others, manage life’s challenges and regulate their behaviour.

·       Communicating and Learning: This module explores exciting research into memory, early language development and the important role of play in learning. It also focuses on ways to capitalize on everyday learning opportunities with young children.

·       The Ecology of Childhood: From conception on, a child’s world is shaped by other individuals, community organizations, available resources, opportunities, and cultural patterns. This module focuses on the interplay of the many contexts that influence child development.

·       Developmental Health: This module is about the ‘big picture’. Gain insight into why early years have such a long-term impact on both individuals and societies; learn how to use this information to advocate for children and families.

There are also two single modules available alone or as an add-on to an SECD living textbook:

·       The Child Development Primer (available in English and French) provides an overview of basic child development including a review of child development theories, an overview of ages and stages, the importance of play, and other concepts.

·       The Prenatal Development Module includes an overview, research and links to practice focusing on the complex process of prenatal development and factors influencing fetal development and life-long health.