Early Childhood Education

One or two year program offered to junior and senior students.  This course is designed to provide students interested in the development of children and a career involving children with a basic knowledge and understanding of children and their physical, mental, and emotional development. Broad areas of emphasis include: development of the child from conception through preschool age, the changes that take place in a mother’s body, the family and its role, nutritional and emotional needs of the children, the role of parents, educational and creative activities for children, childhood illnesses, learning disabilities, and the exploration of human services and education-related careers.  First year students will work on a weekly basis with children at our on-site laboratory called ”Kiddie Kampus Preschool”.  Second year students will work with a cooperating teacher at a work-based learning site for three days a week throughout the school year. This work-based learning site could be a daycare center, home day care, preschool program, elementary school, middle school, high school, or a location specific to a students’ career interest. (i.e.: special education, speech pathology, physical therapy, occupational therapy, reading specialist, social worker, child life specialist) 

First Year Students may earn a Level 1 Gateways Certificate upon successful completion of the course.3 Dual Credits available with SVCC for 2nd year students – EDU 105 – Preparing for Careers in Education , EDU 276 – Clinical Experience in Education