Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. Chapter 1 Learning About Children 31 Review and Assessment Chapter 1 Summary The scientifi c study of children is called child development. The study of child development involves the physical, intellectual, social, and emotional development through six stages of the individual life cycle. Children’s growth and development are affected by heredity and environment. Most children follow similar patterns called principles of growth and development. Many researchers have formed theories about how children grow and develop. No one theory is adequate to describe the complexity of development. Theories, however, give direction for further study of children and provide information needed to work with children. The study of children is important to understand yourself, be a responsible parent, work with children, and protect children’s rights. Observing children is the best way to learn about their behavior. Child observations are done to answer questions, get new ideas, and look for causes that affect behavior. Portfolio Foundations When you apply for college admission, a job, or a community service position, you may need to tell others about your qualifications for the position. A portfolio is a selection of related materials you collect and organize. These materials show your qualifications, skills, talents, and interests. For instance, a certificate that shows you completed first aid and CPR training could help you get a summer job working with children through a park district program. An essay you wrote about protecting children from neglect may help you gain admission to the early childhood education college program you desire. A transcript of your school grades also shows your qualifications to a potential college. There are two types of portfolios people com- monly use: print portfolios and electronic portfolios (e-Portfolios). To learn more about portfolios, complete the following: • Use the Internet to search for print portfolios and e-Portfolio. Read several articles about each type of portfolio. In your own words, briefly write a summary of each type. • You will be creating a portfolio for this class. Based on your reading, which type of portfolio would you prefer to create? Why? Write a paragraph summarizing your thinking.