Early Childhood Education--Certificate Skills Guide

Recommended High School Level Background Courses

• *Biology
• *General Math
• *Algebra I
• Keyboarding
• Speech
• *Health
• *Psychology
• Art
• *Composition
• *Sociology
• Family and Consumer Science

* Courses available in the Academic Achievement Center or High School Completion Center

Basic Skills in the Program and on the Job

Reading

Textbook assignments are a central part of the courses in this program, with tests based on a combination of lectures, electronic materials, texts, and in-class activities.

In addition to their texts, students will be reading curriculum guides, children's books, and handouts from professional publications. They must also be able to use reference books and the internet as resources to answer children's questions. They can expect to continue this type of literacy on the job.

View more information on reading skills in the Early Childhood Education Certificate program.

Language

Good communication skills are essential in this program. In their classes, students will participate in discussion groups covering the day's activities. In addition to interacting with children, staff members, and other students, they must be able to communicate clearly to families as they describe and justify the actions they have taken.

Within the program, students engage in a variety of writing activities: recording their observations, writing short essay responses on tests, evaluating their progress, preparing lesson plans, composing letters to families, and developing statements of policy and procedure. These activities help to prepare them for similar writing requirements on the job.

View more information on language skills in the Early Childhood Education Certificate program.

Math

Students who choose to complete an Early Childhood Education Certificate will use math in their program coursework to prepare budgets, determine the nutritional content of foods, plan menus, figure cost per serving, and measure portions accurately.

View more information on math skills in the Early Childhood Education Certificate program.

Learning

Several crucial thinking skills are refined in this program for independent use on the job. Students must learn to be objective observers of the children with whom they interact. They should also be able to apply principles discussed in class to specific cases, adapting as necessary to fit the circumstances. They need to make on-the-spot decisions and trace the consequences of their actions.

View more information on learning skills in the Early Childhood Education Certificate program.

Computer

Most courses require typed/word processed assignments; therefore, students will find word processing skills helpful. They will continue to use these skills on the job as they prepare forms and write letters to parents. Students also need to be familiar with using the internet to find credible, useful resources.

View more information on computer skills in the Early Childhood Education Certificate program.

In general, students who succeed in this program possess energy, enthusiasm, good health, and the maturity to focus on children's needs above their own. They relate well to children and have the ability to take charge and to think on their feet. They accept evaluation as a means of improving their performance. They maintain confidentiality and adhere to a professional code of conduct. Finally, they have sufficient academic skills and manage their personal life in a way that allows them to successfully complete their coursework.