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Early Childhood Education

Early Childhood Education Programs

The early childhood education program reflects the standards established by the National Association of Education for Young Children for students in the field of early childhood education. The program provides a solid foundation in the who, what, and why of effective early childhood education.

Early Childhood Education - AAS
> Early Childhood Education - Diploma
> Early Childhood Education - Certificate

ECE 179—Infant and Toddler Development 3-0-3
Considers the development of the very young child from conception and birth through age two. Physical, motor, perceptual, cognitive, language and affective development are examined from various theoretical perspectives. In addition, the course deals with specific issues related to infancy, including infant day care, programs and curriculum, working parents and public policy.
ECE 180—Child Care Practicum I 3-0-3
Covers the development of children from two to eight years including the language-motor, emotional, cognitive, social and psychological frameworks of development with particular emphasis given to practical examples of theoretical principles. Techniques for observing and enhancing development are emphasized. Prerequisite: ECE 179 with passing grade

ECE 183—Creative Expression and 3-0-3
Communication for Children Focuses on planning developmentally appropriate curriculum and environments for young children (ages 2-8). The role of creativity is emphasized. Building on this core, the course focuses on methods, materials, and activities to enhance art, play, music, creative movement, and language arts including storytelling, puppets and flannel boards. The role of the adult in a developmentally appropriate classroom is examined with special attention given to observation of children’s behavior. Theories of art and play are studied.

ECE 184—Early Childhood Education Practicum I 2-8-4 
Concentrates on the child as a unique individual in his learning environment. Specific areas of study of the practicum student include creative planning skills, observation skills and a positive early childhood education philosophy that encourages independence, creative thinking, self awareness, exploration, and healthy attitudes within the child. Professional behavior is emphasized. Students are required to complete 120 hours in an assigned placement. Prerequisite: Completion of six Early Childhood Education classes, QPA of 2.5 in major and faculty permission

ECE 185—Family and Society 3-0-3
 Designed to promote curriculum planning and evaluation of developmentally appropriate activities for young children in a variety of areas such as health, safety, nutrition, physical education, manipulatives, math, science, social studies and field trips. The role of the adult in the classroom is examined with special attention given to methods of child guidance.

ECE 186—Cultural and Social Development of Young Children 3-0-3
Exploration of cultural and social variables and their impact on the developing child. Attention is given to family issues such as divorce, working and teen mothers. Also, child abuse, poverty, media, day care, stress and violence are studied. Advocacy and ethics are emphasized.

ECE 187—Child Care Management 3-0-3
Orientation in the planning and administration of early childhood settings. Issues relating to agency policies, guidelines, roles and functions will be considered. This course emphasizes interpersonal staff relationships, effective parent communication and program evaluation. Historical and social foundation of the field is examined.

ECE 188—Introduction to Exceptional 3-0-3
Development Examines the growth and development of exceptional children. Special focus is given to educational implications, identification, relevant legal issues, and relations with families. Exceptional persons studied are the gifted and talented; mentally retarded; learning disabled; the visually, hearing, and language impaired; behavior disordered; autistic; ADHD; and physically handicapped.

ECE 190—Child Health, Safety and Nutrition 3-0-3
Designed for early childhood educators and parents. Describes the components of child health, safety and nutrition. Identifies risks to health and safety. Health promotion, disease prevention, and basic care of the child at each developmental stage are examined.

ECE 194—Education of Young Children with Special Needs 3-0-3
Provides an in-depth study of the education of young children with exceptionalities. Identification and appropriate education of young children with special needs will be the focus. Attention given to legal aspects and inclusion. Prerequisite: ECE 188 179

ECE 233—Children’s Literature 3-0-3
Familiarizes students with a wide variety of literary genres ranging from traditional folk tales and nursery rhymes to modern fiction. Attention will be given to the history and the critical study of children’s literature. Prerequisite: ENG 070, RDG 080 or satisfactory Placement Test score

ECE 284—Early Childhood 2-8-4
 Education Practicum II An in-depth approach that builds upon the basic principles, theories, methods and concepts of ECE 184, and develops a maturity and enhanced competency in early childhood education. Emphasis will be placed on planning and implementing developmentally appropriate curriculum. 120 hours of practicum experience is required. Prerequisites: Successful completion of ECE 184 and faculty permission.