The child and youth care worker's role in the health and safety of children

The developmental nature of childhood explains why children can be especially vulnerable to harm. Their physiological development and maturity levels require that their caregivers be equipped to keep them safe. Furthermore, the growing acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) pandemic affecting children requires specialised solutions, but also a focus on quality care on a daily basis. Child and Youth Care Work has as its aim to promote the optimal development of children and therefore plays a critical role in the multi-disciplinary team to keep children safe and healthy. This paper provides an overview of some of the important elements of managing the well-being of children on a daily basis. It can serve as a reference to the important aspects that require attention from the Practitioner tasked with the care of children.