ABSTRACT
Child and Family Practice covers a breadth of practice settings including statutory child protection, mental health, out-of-home-care, family violence, substance abuse and the intersection of these contexts across both statutory and community contexts. This chapter discusses the foundational skills and knowledge required to work effectively with vulnerable children and their families. It details how knowledge and skills develop along a trajectory of practice, i.e. from beginner through to advanced practice, and finally leadership level. The chapter includes a brief overview of the impacts of trauma on children. Working with children requires a unique set of skills; however, ensuring child safety must remain the paramount concern. Consideration is given to how beginning practitioners can develop good practice skills, and the role of critical reflection and supervision in supporting professional development. Finally, the chapter considers how practice-based skills – including assessment, case planning and trauma-informed approaches – can be utilised to develop individualised and flexible approaches to Child and Family Practice.
