Attachment and Child Development

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This course was previously called: Attachment Theory
This Virtual College Attachment and Child Development online training course has been designed for those who work with children and want to improve their understanding on the topic. The CPD approved training looks at the role attachment plays in the development of a child, the impact it can have, how children can be helped and the impact of brain development in the context of attachment theory.
Course Level: Intermediate
Duration: 1-2 Hours
Accreditation: CPD Certified
Certificate: Self-Printed Certificate
Last Updated: 22nd August 2025
Description
Our introductory course is aimed at anyone who works with children, from social care workers to teachers, and wants to understand attachment theory.
Attachment Theory is a well-established theory which illustrates the key role attachment plays in the development of a child through to adulthood, how they form relationships with others and how they perceive themselves.
Using the context of attachment theory, our course is designed to provide you with insights into children’s behaviour and development, and what you can do to help a child who may be struggling.
Overall, it explores the history of attachment, the different attachment styles, the impact on brain development, the ways it can affect children and how it can impact their development through to adulthood, and helpful suggestions on what you can do if suspect a child is struggling with attachment difficulties.
We strive to ensure our courses are meaningful, beneficial and engaging. This attachment theory course includes a wide range of media types, such as videos, resources and challenges, to help bring the learning to life.
Who should take this attachment training course?
Our learning theory of attachment online course is suitable for anyone working with children in a wide range of roles which includes frequent or regular work with vulnerable children. Some of these roles may include social workers, care workers, teachers and teaching assistants.
Attachment Theory Course Duration
Our attachment theory online course will take approximately one to two hours to complete. The length of time taken depends entirely on how quickly you can study and absorb the material. You can proceed as quickly or slowly as you like, and there is no limit on how long you can take to do the course and your progress will be automatically saved so you can log in and out as you please.
Entry requirements
There are no specific entry requirements for this attachment training for professionals course.
Test and certificate
The end of course test consists of 15 multiple choice questions. Learners are required to achieve a 75% pass mark, and, if necessary, may attempt the test six times at no extra cost.
If learners do not achieve the 75% pass mark, further attempts may be given by contacting our support team.
Learners will be able to download a digital certificate in attachment theory on completion. This can be printed, and we suggest you keep it for your records.
What training can I do next?
Our Safer Sleeping for Babies online course is CPD approved and is perfect for those working in a healthcare or childcare environment.
We also offer an online Working with Children with Learning Difficulties and Disabilities course.
What you'll learn
- Understand the origins and development of attachment theory
- Recognise the impact of brain development in the context of attachment theory
- Outline the impact of attachment on children and the implications for this into adulthood
- Know the impact of insecure attachment styles on caregivers
- Be familiar with what can help children and carers
Suitable for
- Social workers
- Care workers
- Teachers
- Teaching assistants
Certification
Upon completion of any of our courses, learners will be able to download a digital certificate from Virtual College which will include the accrediting bodies logo where applicable, the learner's name, the title of the course and the date of completion.
If you have purchased the posted certificate option, available on selected courses, a high quality, seal embossed, certificate will be sent out the following working week after completion.

Self-Printed Certificate Option
Upon completion of the course, a digital certificate will be available to download instantly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Attachment theory has become one of the dominant theories used today in the study of infant and toddler behaviour and in the fields of infant mental health, treatment of children, and related fields. It is clear from research that early experiences are most significant in shaping later outcomes for children. You can learn more about attachment theory in our article here.
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Course was very in depth and brought…
Course was very in depth and brought out all salient points without it being too difficult to take in. I know this was an online course but it would be good if you could buy printed book detailing all that is on the course. This would make for easy reference when needed.
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