Course Description: This course will examine the developing child in a societal context, focusing on the interrelationship of family, school, and community and emphasizing historical and socio-cultural factors. Students will gain an understanding of their professional role in supporting practices that strengthen respectful, collaborative family/child partnerships, and how to use protective factors through effective use of community and family resources. The processes of socialization and identity development will be highlighted, showing the importance of respectful, reciprocal relationships that support and empower families.