(36 credits)
The purpose of this program is to prepare students as early childhood education caregivers with an early intervention specialization or to provide supplementary training for persons previously or currently employed in these occupations.
The content includes, but is not limited to, gaining knowledge about working with young children with special needs, growth and development, early childhood education; establishing and maintaining a safe, clean, healthy, learning environment; guidance techniques and classroom management; communication; identification of child abuse and neglect; implementation of rules and regulations; nutrition; family interaction; legal and professional responsibilities; and employability skills. Programs prepare individuals to assume major caregiving and educational responsibilities within home or center-based programs for preschool children.
Program Learning Outcomes
1. Students will present information about the importance of play to early childhood development.
2. Students will analyze assessment data to create a plan to communicate with parents and a plan of action to help support the child’s needs.
3. Students will create a newsletter reflecting their personal beliefs on various aspects of the early childhood classroom.
4. Students will write a reflection about the internship experience.
To be eligible for this certificate a student must meet:
Admissions Requirements:
- have a high school diploma or GED® certificate,
- take a placement exam if not exempt by State Board of Education Rule 6A-10.0315. Insufficient scores will mean the student must take appropriate developmental education courses.
Passing grade on required coursework:
Students will earn 36 college credits towards the Associate of Science in Early Childhood Education.
These 36 hours cannot be a combination of 36 Personal Enrichment hours; they must be declared as a major in the degree or certificate seeking process.