Development of critical and analytical skills in writing and reading of expository prose. Writing assignments, as appropriate to the discipline, are part of the course.

This course provides a foundation in theory and principles of human development, from conception to early adolescence, including an in-depth study of physical, social, emotional, cognitive, and language development, including children's play. Five hours observing young children, ranging in age from birth to age eight, are required. Writing assignments and oral presentations as appropriate to the discipline are part of the course.

This introductory course explores practices that promote good nutrition, dental, physical and mental health, as well as the safety of infants, toddlers, preschool, and school-aged children in group settings. The course has a dual emphasis on the health, safety, and nutrition of young children and adult students. Health, lifestyle, preventative health, community resources, and emergency response procedures are examined. This course introduces cultural beliefs that influence health, safety, and nutrition. It explores ethical and legal responsibilities of adults in protecting the emotional and physical well-being of young children. Five observation hours observing young children in an early childhood education setting are required. Writing assignments and oral presentations, as appropriate to the discipline, are part of the course.

This introductory course is designed to familiarize students with the historic roots and philosophical foundations of early childhood care and education. The course includes an exploration of different types of early childhood programs, the role of the early childhood professional, and an examination of the student's personal qualities in relationship to expectations of the field. The course will include an examination of the role of culture in child development and anti-biased practices in early childhood education. Finally, the course defines the profession and explores the profession's Code of Ethical Conduct. 5 hours observing young children in an early childhood education setting are required for the course. Writing assignments and oral presentations, as appropriate to the discipline, are part of the course.

This introductory course explores the importance of creative activities in the early childhood curriculum and the relationship of creativity to physical, cognitive, language, social, and emotional development. Planning for a variety of developmentally appropriate, creative experiences that allow young children to play with art, music, movement, literature, and drama is explored as well as an examination of the role of the early childhood environment on creative expression. This course emphasizes the importance of the process of creative expression and provides diverse, creative experiences for adult students so they may understand the arts as a means of communicating ideas, feelings, and cultural expression. 8 hours observing young children in an early childhood education setting are required for the course. Writing assignments and oral presentations, as appropriate to the discipline, are part of the course.

This course provides an examination of developmentally appropriate techniques for observing, documenting, and assessing the development of young children in order to inform curriculum planning and promote positive guidance strategies. The course emphasizes a strengths-based approach to assessment that includes building partnerships with families and professional colleagues. Self-reflection is a major component of the course as well as the examination of bias in the observation and assessment of young children from diverse backgrounds. 15 hours observing young children in an early childhood education setting are required for the course. Writing assignments and oral presentations as appropriate to the discipline are part of the course.

This course explores the importance of building positive relationships between young children, their families, the community, and the early childhood setting. It examines issues of diversity, multiculturalism, and anti-bias approaches in working with young children, their families, and the community as well as current policies, and practices that influence families. This course promotes self-reflection, cross cultural communication, and sensitivity to cultural, linguistic, and ability diversity. 5 hours observing young children in an early childhood education setting are required for the course. Writing assignments and oral presentations as appropriate to the discipline are part of the course.