100

The focus of this course is to overview the historical and theoretical foundations of Early Childhood and to introduce the role of philosophies in decision-making processes. An emphasis on Developmentally Appropriate Practices(DAP) is accompanied by exploration of professional ethics, program types, career choices, child care regulations, and policies.

This course overviews developmental concepts and theories as applied to early learning classroom and realworld contexts. Investigation includes physical, social, cognitive, emotional, moral, and spiritual domains. Field experiences required. Prerequisite: ECED-101

This course examines the appropriate use of assessment and observation strategies to document development, growth, play, and learning when joined with teachers, professionals, and primary care providers in promoting a child's success. Recording strategies, rating systems, portfolios, and multiple assessment instruments and tools are explored. Child observations are conducted and analyzed. Field experiences are required. Prerequisites: GEN-111, ECED-101, ECED-120, and ECED-105

This course explores the importance of designing a developmentally appropriate environment for young children by analyzing how to integrate an appropriate daily schedule, determining curricula model use, and selecting appropriate material use that promotes positive child development and learning. The course also emphasizes the positive techniques used in effectively guiding and disciplining young children's behavior.

This course prepares teacher candidates for success in leading, managing, and teaching in early learning environments. The course introduces teacher candidates to the laws, regulations, standards, policies and procedures, and early childhood curriculum related to child health, safety, and nutrition. The key components that ensure physical health, mental health, and safety for both children and staff are identified along with the importance of collaboration with primary care providers and health professionals. There is a focus on integrating these concepts into everyday planning and program development. Prerequisite: GEN-111 and ECED-101

Participants will research and explore complex current regional, state, national, and global sociopolitical issues surrounding Early Childhood. Prerequisite: ECED-101, ECED-105

Examination of the historical evolution of the family, the role family involvement plays on child development, and the development of communication strategies provides a framework for building effective and reciprocal home-school relationships and partnerships. Field experiences required.

This courses focuses on the ages and stages of early literacy (reading, writing, listening, speaking) development and the fostering of language-rich environments. Field experiences required.