Early Childhood Education

Course Description
The Early Childhood Education program is designed for 11th and 12th grade students who have a sincere desire to teach and care for young children. It prepares students for either an entry-level position in the child care industry or to pursue a college degree in early childhood education or elementary education. Students observe and interact in a variety of early childhood settings including elementary schools, child care centers, Head Start programs, and early intervention programs as well as our own on-site preschool, “Little Hands.”

Program Content
Topics of study include principles of child development, health, safety and nutrition, observation and teaching skills, communication skills, team building skills and child care center management and organization. Along with classroom instruction, students will learn skills by preparing and presenting both individual and team projects appropriate for children ages infant through young school-age. The students will reflect upon these experiences and record them in their journals as a required competency.

Related Occupations
Teacher’s Assistant
Child Care Assistant
Nanny
Assistant Group Supervisor
Family Home Child Care Provider
Early Childhood Teacher
Elementary School Teacher
Child Care Center Director
Office of Child Development Inspector