Caregivers' knowledge regarding early childhood development in Soshanguwe, South Africa

Abstract

A child's caregiver holds the key for successful screening by providing the health professional with accurate information. After delivery of a baby, every mother receives a growth chart that provides a guideline to normal development. Caregivers' competency might be influenced by their macro-social and economic environment. The purpose of the study was to determine caregivers' knowledge regarding early childhood development in a poverty stricken area of Soshanguve. If a lack of knowledge should be identified and be addressed, caregivers' enhanced knowledge of childhood development could enhance early detection and effective treatment of developmental problems. This might help to enhance these children's physical and emotional and intellectual accomplishments throughout their lives. The objectives were to explore caregivers' knowledge of the Road to Health Chart, their understanding of early childhood development and their perceptions regarding the treatment of developmental problems. A quantitative survey was conducted. Self-reported data were gathered by means of structured interviews. Although the respondents had previously received education on the Road to Health Charts, they lacked knowledge regarding development categories, especially language, speech and cognitive development and they expected health services to play a significant role in the treatment of developmental problems. Programmes to provide caregivers with knowledge regarding early childhood development need to be developed and implemented. Early diagnoses of and effective interventions for childhood developmental problems could help children to reach their developmental milestones and to experience fewer problems throughout life.