This program is designed for aspiring child educators looking to learn the principles of child growth and development necessary for working in programs that serve children from infancy through age eight. Social, emotional, physical, and intellectual development of young children and the implications of these areas of growth and development on group care are emphasized. These sessions are conducted online.

Upon completion of this program you will be able to:

• Describe theories and principles of child development and learning and apply the theories and principles to the classroom teaching.
• Use systematic observations, documentation, and other effective assessment strategies in observing and working with children.
• Apply developmentally appropriate teaching practices and guidance approaches to enhance children’s learning and development.
• Develop and implement curriculum plans to promote children’s learning in the areas of physical/motor, social, emotional, cognitive, and language development.
• Be reflective practitioners to reflect and use the most effective methods of guidance and teaching when working with children.
• Demonstrate written, verbal, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, which will allow them to effectively make connections between prior knowledge/experience and new learning.
• Teach young children in an early childhood setting with the required disposition, knowledge, skills, and competencies.