Families and Parenting

Start with family life

Begin with the mind map on what a family is and what a family provides. It covers a secure and stable environment, role models, routines, encouragement and affection. Use these ideas as a starting point, then look at the maps that describe different family types. Notice how each map organizes its examples and explanations.

Explore family types

The listed mind maps include descriptions of nuclear and extended families. Another map also lists single-parent, foster, adoptive and shared care families. The Child Development flashcard deck asks what a family is and names several family types. After reading a map, use the flashcards to practice recalling the terms, then return to the map to check the descriptions you have studied.

Look at parenthood and support

Several Child Development mind maps place family types alongside parenthood, pregnancy, child development, and support for parents and children. There are also maps on the skills needed for parenthood and on changes to parents' lifestyles after a baby is born. Choose one of these after studying family types to explore another part of the page.

Use the page within the unit

Families and Parenting is a section of the Child Development unit in Health and social care. The broader Child Development maps can help you see how this section connects with other material shown in the unit. For example, they bring family types together with pregnancy and the diet, health and care of the child. Try moving between a broader map and the family-type flashcards as you study.