Early Childhood Education - Parent Educator Certificate

The Early Childhood Education program is designed to prepare students to secure one of the many careers available in early childhood education. Graduates of the program may work with children from birth to eight years of age in a variety of settings such as child care centers, preschools, child development homes, or public and private schools. Students may elect to complete either the Educator Licensure/Transfer Pathway or the Child Care Management Pathway of the Early Childhood Education AAS. Students who intend to teach in a Pre-K through third-grade setting will need to transfer to a teacher licensure institution. In addition, this program addresses the competencies and functional areas necessary for students to begin the assessment and testing process for the Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential administered by the Council for Early Childhood Professional Recognition. See http://www.cdacouncil.org/storage/documents/TransitionGuide_1-3-13.pdf for additional CDA Credential requirements by the Council.

Summary Sheet

The summary sheet provides a program overview and other information.

Download the summary sheet.

Curriculum Information

Curriculum Sequence
Fall Semester	Course Title	Credit
ECE-103	INTRODUCTION TO EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION	3
ECE-170	CHILD GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT	3
ECE-123	FAMILY, TEACHER, AND COMMUNITY INTERACTION	3
	Semester Total:	9
	PROGRAM TOTAL:	9

Course Descriptions

ECE-103 - INTRODUCTION TO EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION
Lecture: 3				Credit: 3
This course is an overview of early childhood programs and curricula, historical and present, and an examination of qualities and skills necessary for working with young children.
ECE-170 - CHILD GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT
Lecture: 3				Credit: 3
This course reviews typical and atypical development of children from conception to adolescence in all developmental domains. Students will examine interactions between child, family, and society within a variety of community and cultural contexts. The course will explore theories and evidence-based practices associated with understanding and supporting young children.
ECE-123 - FAMILY, TEACHER, AND COMMUNITY INTERACTION
Lecture: 3				Credit: 3
This course will provide an introduction to the family systems and parenting in a changing society. Principles of child development with family relationships applied to group and individual work with parents will be covered. This course will assist providers in developing skills that will help them effectively relate to parents. Topics will include: communication techniques, children's fears, discipline, nutrition, diversity, children's play and discovery as learning opportunities, and school/community resources.