The Early Childhood Education program provides an educational and practical foundation for students interested in working with children from infancy through third grade. In addition to theoretical principles, the curriculum offers practical skills and on-site training that will prepare students for employment in the field of Early Childhood Education. The program leads to certificates in Early Childhood Education and/or an Associate of Science Degree. The EAR courses will also fulfill the required child development coursework for the state issued Child Development Permit. Information regarding this permit and/or the Early Childhood Education Certificates are available from the Early Childhood Education Department.

Upon successful completion of this program, students should be able to: • Develop, implement, and evaluate developmentally appropriate thematic and emergent curriculum for children who are typical and atypical in the areas of physical, cognitive, language, creative and social/emotional growth. • Develop and apply appropriate practices and effective techniques that respect the cultural diversity of young children and their families. • Integrate an educational philosophy into classroom practices that reflects a personal belief supportive of theoretical principles regarding how and why young children should receive early educational experiences. • Develop and implement a system of ongoing observational practices that contributes toward the creation of learning environments conducive to the emergence of curriculum that adapts to the evolving needs of children.