Child Development/Child Care

This course will introduce teacher candidates to the roles and professional skills and practices that they will need to support each and every child and family in quality early childhood programs. The importance of positive and respectful relationships with families, communities and children will be emphasized. Essential concepts of developmentally appropriate approaches to learning for children including those who are diverse in culture, language, ability, race, and life circumstances will be stressed. Students are introduced to practices, strategies, materials, and resources they can use to help enhance multicultural and anti-bias experiences in the early childhood classroom. Discussion and practice in upholding ethical standards for ethics, equity and other professional practices will be included.

Teaching practicum and integration seminar for Child Development Associate candidates, Child Development/Child Care and Preschool - Grade 3 Education majors. During the 90 hours of placement, students will observe and interact with children and teaching professionals. Focus will be on development and implementation of appropriate curriculum. A series of seminars will integrate the teaching practicum with core concepts of the early childhood profession. (Placements usually occur during the day; child care employees may use their workplace as the placement.

Provides information about meeting the health, safety, nutrition and special needs of young children. The course will also discuss the important components of these topics and how they can work together. A review of state regulations, key program policies, daily practices, and discussion of early childhood special needs accommodations. A weekly three-hour (45 hour total) practicum with a children’s group (early childhood classroom or family home child care) will allow the student to observe and apply research-based theory.

Provides information about meeting the social/emotional needs for children ages 0 to 5 and their families. The students will explore social and emotional strategies to use in the early childhood classroom and with parents.

Theoretical study of programming activity and its relationship to the total growth and development of children in a preschool setting. Students design and carry out activities and experiences for children. In addition to the lecture, students must be available for a three-hour-per-week practicum with a children’s group.