Early Childhood Education — Introductory (Certificate)

The Introductory Early Childhood Education certificate is the first pathway leading to greater qualifications for work with young children. With the experience provided in the practicum (ECE-123), those completing this certificate will be ready to apply for teacher qualification through the MADOEEC. The required ECE courses will be offered in the evening in rotation.

Expected Outcomes

Graduates of this program should be able to:

• Demonstrate understanding of significant theories of child development and their practical implementation in child care settings;
• Develop practical skills in guiding and interacting with youth from studying various program models;
• Understand diverse family structures and use culturally competent practices to support and communicate with children and families;
• Ensure children’s safety, promote health practices and recognize and respond to abuse and neglect;
• Recognize characteristics of high-quality environments and developmentally appropriate curriculum; and
• Understand the goals, benefits and uses of observation and assessment in early childhood.