Child Development/Early Childhood (A.A.)
Department website: https://www.cerritos.edu/child-development/
ASSOCIATE OF ART
This option requires one of the Certificates of Achievement (Child Development/Early Childhood + 6-unit Specialty Option or Child Development/Preschool Director + 6-unit Specialty Option) and the required general education courses at Cerritos College. Some courses may be transferable; see college catalog and counselor for more information. Petitions for the Certificate of Achievement must be made through the Cerritos College office of Admissions and Records. The deadline for submitting petitions is listed in the Schedule of Classes each semester.
Program Student Learning Outcomes
- Students create highly engaging, stimulating, and safe learning environments which promote the healthy development of young children.
- Students examine children's individual differences and plan intentional learning experiences based on the unique developmental abilities and interests of the children in their care.
- Students explain early childhood and child development theories to inform their teaching principles and practices.
- Students observe, analyze, and document children's learning and development.
- Students value positive relationships with others and demonstrate an inclusive approach in their interactions with children, families, colleagues, and staff.
Program Requirements
| Code Number | Course Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| Start with Core Classes | ||
| CD 110 | Child Development | 3.0 |
| CDEC 111 | Principles and Practices in Early Childhood Education | 3.0 |
| CDEC 112 | Introduction to Curriculum | 3.0 |
| CDEC 113 | The Child, Family, and Community | 3.0 |
| Completion of any 2 allows you to be eligible for the Assistant level of the Permit. | ||
| Completion of all 4 and work experience allows you to be eligible for the Associate Teacher level of the Permit | ||
| Next complete these four classes: | ||
| CD 124 | Teaching in a Diverse Society | 3.0 |
| CD 139 | Observation, Assessment, and Positive Guidance of Childhood Behavior | 3.0 |
| CDEC 161 | Health, Safety, and Nutrition | 3.0 |
| CDEC 164 | Practicum Field Experience | 3.0 |
Note: All four core classes must be completed before enrolling in CDEC 164. Completion of all 8 courses + 16 general education units + work experience allows you to be eligible for the Teacher level of the Permit.
SPECIALITY OPTIONS*(6 additional units required for CD CORE PLUS Certificate and A.A. Degree)
- Specialties also meet the “6 specialization units” required at the Master Teacher level of the Permit
- Courses for specialties also meet general education required “elective” units. Meet with a counselor for accepted “elective” units.
| Code Number | Course Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| Specialty Options | ||
Infant/Toddler Specialization | ||
| Infant and Toddler Development (3) | ||
| Care and Education for Infants and Toddlers (3) | ||
OR Special Education Specialization | ||
| Introduction to Children with Special Needs (3) | ||
| Curriculum and Strategies for Children with Special Needs (3) | ||
or ECE Curriculum Planning Specialization (Choose 2 out of the 4 below) | ||
| Exploring Creative Art Expression by Children (3) | ||
| Early Childhood Experiences in Language Arts and Social Sciences (3) | ||
| Music and Movement for Children (3) | ||
| Early Childhood Experiences in Mathematics and Science (3) | ||
ASSOCIATE OF ARTS DEGREE REQUIREMENTS
Complete a minimum of 60 units, including (1) the above courses and requirements, (2) General Education requirements, and (3) additional elective courses as needed.