Early Childcare 19.0708

The Early Childhood Education program prepares students for employment and continued education in the field of early learning and child development. Through classroom instruction and hands-on experience in supervised lab and childcare settings, students develop the knowledge, skills, and professional attitudes needed to work effectively with young children. The program emphasizes understanding child growth and development, lesson planning, classroom management, and effective communication. Students gain practical experience observing and assessing children, designing age-appropriate learning activities, and maintaining safe, healthy, and inclusive environments. Additional focus is placed on professionalism, ethical practice, and teamwork within early childhood settings. Opportunities to earn industry-recognized credentials, such as the Child Development Associate (CDA) or state childcare certifications, help prepare students for entry-level positions in childcare centers, preschools, and Head Start programs. Graduates are well-prepared to begin their careers or to continue their education in early childhood, elementary education, or related human services fields.           

• Support children’s physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development

• Lesson planning

• Classroom management

• Child observation and assessment

• Health and safety practices

• Child growth and development theories

• Effective communication

• Professional ethics in early education