Students will examine the physical, social/emotional and intellectual development of children.  Topics of study include: child development, child psychology, nutrition, social/emotional learning, special needs of children, and health and safety of children.  Students will design and implement lesson plans, care for children in a preschool environment, enhance professional written and oral communication skills, and gain hands-on experience through internships at local preschools, childcare centers and elementary schools.  The Early Childhood Program is located off-campus at the Ithaca Community Childcare Center (IC3) on Warren Road in Ithaca.

• Creative learning activities

• Guiding children effectively

• Types of early childhood programs

• Working with special needs children

• Understanding health policies

• Curriculum development

• Creating a healthy environment

• First aid and safety

• Music and movement

• Food and nutrition

• Involving parents and families

• Child development, birth to school age

• Preschool Teacher

• Preschool Teacher Aide

• Nanny

• Day Care Provider

• Kindergarten Teacher

• Elementary Teacher

Tompkins Cortland Community College

ECHD 110: Children and the Arts (3 credits)

ECHD 125: Introduction to Early Childhood (3 credits)