Early Childhood Development Basic Certificate (645)

Award: Certificate

Program Mission: The Chesapeake College Early Childhood Development Basic Certificate provides instruction and training for entry-level child care positions. The program was developed in accordance with Maryland State Department of Education/Office of Child Care Licensing and Regulations standards. The Basic Certificate is designed so that students may progress to the Advanced Certificate or a degree.

Program Description: The Early Childhood Development Basic Certificate program is designed to prepare those presently employed as child care staff in either centers or family child care facilities with comprehensive training to update and enhance their competencies to meet Maryland Office of Child Care requirements. In addition, the program provides an opportunity for students interested in joining the field of early childhood education as teacher aides. Early Childhood Development courses comprise the major part of the program. Students should consult with the Early Childhood Development faculty instructor or an academic advisor in planning an appropriate program.

Program Goals: The Early Childhood Development Basic Certificate program will:

• Prepare those presently employed as child care staff in either centers or family child care facilities with comprehensive training to update and enhance their competencies to meet Maryland Office of Child Care Licensing requirements.
• Provide an opportunity for students interested in joining the field of early childhood education as teacher aides.
• Prepare students for entry-level employment in early childhood development or for further study in the field.

Student Learning Outcomes: Upon successful completion of this program the students will be able to:

• Apply skills and concepts of basic child development and behavior.
• Recognize and apply appropriate actions in accordance with basic standards for child care health, safety and nutrition.
• Perform the requisite tasks essential for an entry level job of classroom teacher in the following classrooms:
  - preschool teacher
  - infant/toddler teacher
  - before and after school-age care teacher

Contact Person:  Ms. Sarah Ross