This course provides an introduction to Early Childhood Education, covering its history, philosophical foundations, and the application of child development principles. Topics include assessment methods for observing and recording behavior, communication strategies, guidance approaches, developmentally appropriate practices, and the teacher’s role in early childhood environments. Students must complete practicum hours in a licensed childcare facility or public-school serving children from birth to age eight.
Prerequisites
None.
1. Identify and analyze the scope and necessity of early childhood education.
2. Develop a comprehensive strategy for effective communication, involvement, and education of parents in early childhood education.
3. Describe the essential qualities of effective early childhood teachers and caregivers, and summarize the importance of staffing, training, professionalism, and current issues in the profession.
4. Present the rationale for supporting early childhood education by incorporating perspectives from influential figures, theorists, and their respective theories.
5. Determine appropriate goals, objectives, and evaluation methods necessary for early childhood education.
6. Analyze the impact of the physical environment and educational materials on children in early childhood education programs.
7. Demonstrate the process of developing a schedule by identifying its key components and evaluating various types of curricula relevant to early childhood education.
8. Create activities that promote creative, physical, cognitive, language, and social development for inclusion in early childhood education programs.
9. Design daily routines and group activities that meet the developmental needs of children in early childhood education programs.
10. Explain a range of behavior management strategies and appropriate guidance techniques for application in early childhood education settings.
11. Identify sources of stress in children's lives and recommend effective coping strategies to help them manage stress.