Early Childhood Education

The Early Childhood Education program is designed to teach students the aspects of teaching and working with young children, from birth through elementary age. Students will explore career pathways and develop the characteristics of successful teachers and childcare providers through practicums. Applying theoretical concepts to real-life situations, students are able to take what they have learned in the classroom and apply it to their rotation experiences. The rotation experiences are vital in building the student’s understanding of how to meet the developmental needs and interests of young children in elementary school and daycare settings.

Students learn the basics and methodology of child development and early childhood education while gaining a solid foundation in classroom management, lesson planning and curriculum development for infants/toddlers/preschoolers and young children. Students also learn how to communicate and work with parents/guardians and staff in a diverse educational setting. Upon completion of the program, students are eligible for the Child Development Associate® (CDA) certification and New York State Teaching Assistant Certification.