Child Development/Early Childhood (A.A.)
Department website: https://www.cerritos.edu/child-development/
ASSOCIATE OF ARTS
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
- Create highly engaging, stimulating, and safe learning environmentsthat promote the holistic development of young children.
- Examine children’s individual differences and plan intentionallearning experiences based on the unique developmental abilities andinterests of the children in their care.
- Apply critical thinking skills to explain early childhood and child development theories to inform teaching principles and practices.
- Observe, analyze, and document children’s learning and development while demonstrating proficiency in written and oral communication.
- Value positive relationships with others and demonstrate an inclusive and culturally responsive approach in interactions with children, families, colleagues, staff, and community.
Program Requirements
| Code Number | Course Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| Start with Core Classes | ||
| CDEV C1000 | Child Growth and 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.