Early Childhood Education (A.A.)

• Develops knowledge, skills, and experience to work effectively with children based on industry standards.
• Includes theoretical study of how children learn, and strategies for educating children in a holistic manner.
• Prepares for further studies beyond the associate degree.
• Requires a field placement in a childcare or school environment.

Program Outcomes

Successful graduates will be able to:

• Explain theories, concepts and principles connected to the physical, intellectual, social, and emotional development of children;
• Model effective communication, observation and reflection practices with children and their families;
• Describe practices and adaptations used in child care or school settings that respect diversity and promote the inclusion of children who have special needs or different learning styles;
• Demonstrate a working knowledge of administrative practices such as budgeting, leadership, supervisory and evaluative practices in early childhood education programs;
• Articulate a personal philosophy of early care and education;
• Evaluate and prepare curriculum and program activities consistent with current research on early childhood learning theory and models;
• Maintain a safe, healthy, and nurturing learning environment for children;
• Demonstrate academic skills required of all CCV graduates including competency in critical thinking, writing, information literacy, oral communication, and quantitative reasoning;
• Identify career and transfer options and assume a professional role in the workplace.

Program Requirements

Program Description (Requires Acrobat Reader)

Related link: Northern Lights Career Development Center collaborates with CCV to provide continuing professional development and career planning for early childhood and afterschool educators.