Early Childhood Studies Associate Teacher - Certificate of Achievement

This program map only provides one possible pathway for degree and/or certificate obtainment and is for reference only. Please schedule an appointment with a counselor to develop your individualized Student Education Plan.

The Early Childhood Studies Associate Teacher Certificate of Acheivement will prepare students with the education and experience required to provide service in the care, development, and instruction of children in an early care and education setting while supervising aids. The certificate meets the education requirements associated with the State of California Commission for Associate Teacher Credentialing Child Development Permit Matrix Associate Teacher Permit. This certificate also meets Community Care Licensing requirements to teach preschool-aged children in a licensed childcare facility.

The pathway below represents an efficient and effective course taking sequence for this program. Individual circumstances might require some changes to this pathway. It is always recommended that you meet with an academic counselor to develop a personalized educational plan.

Value and cultivate collaborative family and community relationships.

Identify and implement observation, documentation and other assessment strategies.

Understand and apply child development theories and principles.

Program Map

Requirement
GE General Education
E Elective

Summer Year 1

3 units
ECS 103
Introduction to Early Childhood

ECS 103 course is a comprehensive introduction to the early childhood studies academic program.  This course explores the educational pathways for working with children and families from birth to 8 years of age.  The course takes an in-depth look at careers and associated competencies; workforce requirements such as required courses, certifications, and professional development; and personal and professional characteristics required in the field of early childhood care and education.

            Fall Year 1

            6 units
            ECS 100
            Child Growth and Development

            Examines the progression of development in the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional domains and identifies developmental milestones for children from conception through adolescence. Emphasis on interactions between biological processes and environmental factors. Students will observe children, evaluate individual differences, and analyze characteristics of development at various stages according to developmental theories.

                1. D7 - Interdisciplinary Social or Behavioral Science
                2. Lifelong Learning and Self-Development
                1. Category 2A: Social Sciences
                  ECS 104
                  Principles and Practices of Teaching Young Children

                  Historical contexts and theoretical perspectives of developmentally appropriate practice in early care and education for children birth through age eight. Explores the typical roles and expectations of early childhood educators. Identifies professional ethics, career pathways, and professional standards. Introduces best practices for developmentally appropriate learning environments, curriculum, and effective pedagogy for young children including how play contributes to children's learning, growth, and development.

                            Spring Year 1

                            7 units
                            ECS 105
                            Observation and Assessment

                            This course introduces the appropriate use of assessment and observation tools and strategies to document young children’s development and learning. The use of findings to inform and plan learning environments and experiences are emphasized. Recording strategies, rating systems, portfolios, and multiple assessment tools will be discussed, along with strategies for collaboration with families and professionals. All students enrolled in ECS 105 must show proof of their current tuberculosis (TB) clearance and may need immunization against influenza, pertussis and measles to meet the provisions of SB792. Students must present valid health records the first day of class to remain enrolled in the course.  For questions, please contact the instructor of record.

                            1. Prerequisite: ECS 100
                            2. Advisories: ECS 149
                                    ECS 101
                                    Child, Family and Community

                                    The processes of socialization focusing on the interrelationship of family, school, and community. Examines the influence of multiple societal contexts. Explores the role of collaboration between family, community, and schools in supporting children’s development, birth through adolescence.

                                        1. D7 - Interdisciplinary Social or Behavioral Science
                                        1. Category 2A: Social Sciences
                                          ECS 149
                                          Cooperative Work Experience: Occupational
                                          Supervised employment extending classroom-based learning on-the-job related learning environment relating to the student's career and educational goals. In addition, these work experiences improve the student's basic work skills and professional competencies by creating career awareness, improving work habits and fostering positive workplace attitudes.