Catalog Info
An introduction course to the field of early childhood education, focusing on the history and development of educational programs for young children birth to age eight. Students will develop a better understanding of the role of adults, basic child development theory, domains of development, play relationships, developing positive relationships with diverse families, observation in early childhood programs, curriculum development, and child guidance. This course is a pre-requisite for the rest of the required CORE courses in the Children and Families Program.
The Following NAEYC Associate Degree Standards are met by this course at the understanding or application level:
1. Promoting Child Development and Learning:
- 1a: Knowing and understanding young children's characteristics and needs.
- 1b: Knowing and understanding the multiple influences on early development and learning.
- 1c: Using developmental knowledge to create healthy, respectful, supportive, and challenging learning environments for young children.
2. Building Family and Community Relationships:
- 2a: Knowing about and understanding diverse families and communities.
- 2b: Supporting and engaging families and communities through respectful, reciprocal relationships.
3. Observing, Documenting, and Assessing to Support Young Children and Families:
- 3a: Understanding the goals, benefits, and uses of assessment.
- 3d. Knowing about assessment partnerships with families and other professionals.
4. Using Effective Approaches to Connect with Children and Families:
- 4a: Knowing, understanding, and using positive relationships.
- 4b: Knowing, understanding, and using effective approaches, strategies, and tools for early education.
5. Using Content Knowledge to Build Meaningful Curriculum:
- 5a: Understanding content knowledge and resources in academic disciplines.
Credit for Prior College-Level Learning
Current, valid CDA (Child Development Associate) Credential. Students must submit:
- A one paragraph typed letter which includes your name, student ID number, your program of study, the semester in which you are planning to start, and finally the reason for requesting the credits.
- A copy of your valid CDA Credential.
The Children and Families Program Director will verify certifications. Verified CCNA certifications, and the CCNA CPCLL Application, will be copied, signed, dated, and retained in the Division Office.
Note: Students interested in transferring into the Children and Families Program and whose CDA Credential has expired will have to take CHD-203 and CHD-211. Those who took college courses to complete their CDA (specifically if expired) should contact the Children and Families Program Director to have their college transcript reviewed before registering for CHD-203 and CHD-211.