Social Sciences/Human Services Division

This program is designed for individuals seeking employment as child care aides, family child care providers, nannies and pre-school teacher aides. Credits are transferable to the Associate Degree in Early Childhood Teaching (Pre-K-Grade 4) and/or Early Childhood Program Management. After obtaining an A.A.S. in either the Teaching or the Management option and working in the child care field for two years, graduates can seek employment as teachers in child care centers. Many courses are transferable to four-year institutions.

Program Competencies

Upon successful completion of the program, the student should be able to:

• Plan and set up an environment designed to support and encourage the development of the creative process in inclusive early care and education settings.
• Employ appropriate, observable assessment and behavior guidance techniques in inclusive early care and education settings.
• Analyze and relate historical, social, economic and philosophic basis for current practice and trends in early childhood education.
• Develop and implement health, safety and nutrition policies that comply with regulatory standards.
• Apply knowledge of infant/toddler development including the unique program needs to develop age appropriate program and environment.
• Utilize the Code of Ethics for Early Childhood Education to demonstrate the development of professional attitude.
• Utilize effective communication skills with children, colleagues, supervisors and parents.