Recognising developmental concerns early and understanding the diverse needs of children with additional needs are essential skills for counsellors and helping professionals. Children develop at different rates, and identifying potential developmental difficulties requires careful observation, professional knowledge, sensitivity, and an understanding of individual developmental differences.

This CPD training provides counsellors and helping professionals with practical knowledge and skills for recognising developmental concerns and understanding the diverse needs of children with additional needs. Participants will explore key areas of child development, common developmental differences, early warning signs, and appropriate approaches to identifying children who may require additional assessment or support.

Participants will also learn how to recognise potential developmental concerns involving communication, learning, behaviour, emotional regulation, social interaction, and physical development. The training introduces practical strategies for communicating effectively with children and their families, supporting individual developmental needs, collaborating with relevant professionals, and recognising when specialist assessment or referral may be necessary.

The course emphasises evidence-informed practice, inclusive and child-centred approaches, cultural sensitivity, ethical decision-making, and multidisciplinary collaboration. It equips counsellors and helping professionals to recognise developmental concerns, provide appropriate support within their professional scope, and contribute to positive developmental outcomes for children with additional needs.