Early Childhood Education (ECED/ECED&)

Introduction to Early Childhood Education
ECED& 105 5 Credits/Units

5 hours of lecture

Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in ECED& 105 and ECED& 120

Explore the foundations of early childhood education. Examine theories defining the field, issues, trends, best practices, and program models. Observe children, professionals and programs in action. [GE, SE]

Health/Safety/Nutrition
ECED& 107 5 Credits/Units

5 hours of lecture

Introduction to implementation of equitable health, safety and nutrition standards for the growing child in group care. Focus on federal Child Care Block Grant funding (CCDF) requirements, WA state licensing and Head Start Performance standards. Develop skills necessary to keep children healthy & safe, report abuse & neglect, and connect families to community resources. [GE]

Practicum-Nurturing Rel
ECED& 120 2 Credits/Units

1 hours of lecture / 2 hours of lab

Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in ECED& 105 and ECED& 120

In an early learning setting, engage in establishing nurturing, supportive relationships with all children and professional peers. Focus on children's health & safety, promoting growth & development, and creating a culturally responsive environment. [GE, SE]

Infants/Toddler Care
ECED& 132 3 Credits/Units

3 hours of lecture

Examine the unique developmental needs of infants and toddlers. Study the role of the caregiver, relationships with families, developmentally appropriate practices, nurturing environments for infants and toddlers, and culturally relevant care. [GE]

Family Care Management
ECED& 134 3 Credits/Units

3 hours of lecture

Learn how to manage a family childcare program. Topics include: licensing requirements, record-keeping, relationship building, communication strategies, guiding behavior, and promoting growth and development. [GE]

Administration of ECE
ECED& 139 3 Credits/Units

3 hours of lecture

Develop administration skills required to develop, operate, manage and improve early childhood education and care programs. Acquire basic business management skills. Explore resources and supports for meeting Washington State licensing and professional NAEYC standards. [GE]

Curriculum Development
ECED& 160 5 Credits/Units

5 hours of lecture

Investigate learning theory, program planning, tools and methods for curriculum development promoting language, fine/gross motor, social-emotional, cognitive and creative skills and growth in children birth through age 8 utilizing developmentally appropriate and culturally responsive practice. [GE]

Learning Environments
ECED& 170 3 Credits/Units

3 hours of lecture

Focuses on the adult's role in designing, evaluating, and improving indoor and outdoor environments that ensure quality learning, nurturing experiences, and optimize the development of young children. [GE]

Language and Literacy
ECED& 180 3 Credits/Units

3 hours of lecture

Teaching strategies for language acquisition and literacy skill development examined at each developmental stage (birth-age 8) through the four interrelated areas of speaking, listening, writing, and reading. [GE]

Observation and Assessment
ECED& 190 3 Credits/Units

3 hours of lecture

Practice collecting and presenting observation data of children, teaching practices and learning centers in an early childhood setting. [GE]