Associate of Applied Science - Early Childhood Education

This degree program prepares students for a career in Early Childhood Education. The completion of the degree or certificate program prepares graduates to seek employment in child care centers, Head Start, family child care homes, cooperative and private preschools, children’s homes, institutions and other programs serving children from birth through 8 years of age. This curriculum provides meaningful instruction for parents, foster parents and persons working with young children as instructional aides or paraeducators. Cultural relevancy is integrated into each course.

Students who successfully complete this program will be able to: • Use developmental milestones and observations of children’s behavior as a foundation for planning appropriate activities. • Advocate for strategies that promote the cultural diversity of children, families and their communities. • Demonstrate effective written, verbal and non-verbal communication • Discuss current issues and trends in early childhood education. • Identify typical and atypical growth and development (cognitive, linguistic, motor, and social). • Positively support children’s whole development. • Display a positive attitude and enthusiasm for the job • Develop rapport and contribute to the work environment as a member of the instructional team. • Practice ethical and professional standards of conduct • Comply with laws (such as IDEA, Section 504, ADA), workplace policies, and procedures in relation to confidentiality, reporting of abuse, discipline, chain of command and delegation and supervision. • Design, set up and manage safe, healthy environments, spaces, equipment and materials which invite learning. • Discuss the dynamics of family structure. • Involve parents and community agencies in early childhood development.