This is a three unit course that explores appropriate curriculum and environments for children from birth to age 6. Teachers' roles in supporting development and joy of learning for all children using observation and assessment and emphasizing the essential role of play through language, literacy, social/emotional learning, physical/motor activity, sensory learning, art, creativity, math andscience. 

An examination of the developing child in a societal context focusing on the interrelationship of family, school, and community, and emphasizing historical and socio-cultural factors. The processes of socialization and identity development will be highlighted, showing the importance of respectful, reciprocal relationships that support and empower families.

Study of the role of parents/guardians in the healthy development of children from birth through adolescence. Emphasis on building positive relationships with children in the areas of bonding, attachment, self esteem, family dynamics, age-appropriate expectations and the importance of positive communications. Fulfills court-mandated parent education requirements.

Course topics will include strategies to promote children's social and emotional development and tools to address challenging behaviors and mental health needs. Course includes interrelated levels of practice in developing positive relationships with children, families and colleagues; creating supportive environments; utilizing social and emotional teaching strategies to provide intensive, individualized interventions.

Physical/sensory-motor, social-emotional, and cognitive/language development of the prenatal period throughout the first three years will be studied with an emphasis on interactions between genetic and environmental factors. Brain development research and major developmental theories are the guiding principles for practice. Caring adults as a foundation for all development will be emphasized.