Child Development/Early Childhood (CERT)
Department website: https://www.cerritos.edu/child-development/
CERTIFICATE OF ACHIEVEMENT
This is a carefully planned course of classes that will meet the requirements of the Department of Social Services and the Child Development Permit as well as when combined with the required general education classes will lead to an A.A. and AS-T. This offers even greater career options. 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 2 | 3.0 |
| Total Units | 24 | |
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 | ||
| Select two of the following: | 6.0 | |
| Exploring Creative Art Expression by Children (3) | ||
| Exploring Creative Art Expression by Children (3) | ||
| Music and Movement for Children (3) | ||
| Early Childhood Experiences in Mathematics and Science (3) | ||