Early Childhood Education

This course will be an exploration into the process of early childhood planning, with special emphasis on the role of environment, curriculum theories, approaches, and trends, and ongoing observation and documentation. Attention is paid to selecting and developing suitable materials, along with developmentally appropriate practices. The cycle of planning, implementing, and evaluating learning experiences is examined and practiced. This course will enhance the student’s ability to work creatively in all curriculum areas.

This course will examine the child with a special need in the family context and in an inclusionary childcare setting. It will provide an overview of the most common exceptionalities and the standard interventions related to them. Emphasis will be on observation, screening, assessment, family-centered early supports and services, natural environments, individualized education plans, inclusive education, community resources, and family issues.

This course is an in-depth study of quality infant/toddler care and education. Principles related to environments, caregiving practices, curriculum, and programmatic issues are explored. In addition, the growth and development of infants and toddlers, birth to age three, is examined. Special emphasis on relationships is woven throughout the course.

What is the status of childhood in America today and how has childhood changed over time? Using knowledge from multiple disciplines, this course will examine the context of and significant factors influencing young children and their families. Major topics explored will include the media, technology, issues related to gender and equity, changes in children’s play, and public policy. Students will examine what research reveals about optimal child outcomes and will identify specific strategies early childhood professionals can use to advocate for and to support positive child development and healthy family functioning.

High-quality afterschool programs improve a range of academic and social outcomes for children and youth.  This course introduces the knowledge, skills, and dispositions of effective afterschool professionals.  Major course topics are learning environments, curriculum, and health promotion, including evidence-based practices.  Core knowledge areas identified by the National Afterschool Association and the NH Afterschool Professional Development System are also covered.

We cannot discuss trauma without also discussing resiliency.  In this course, students explore the complexities of trauma and the opportunities to promote healing.  A range of evidence-based practices and the principles of a trauma-informed approach will be examined.  By the end of the course, students will be prepared to advocate for trauma-informed services for children and their families and trauma-focused professional development opportunities for early childhood and other professionals.