Early
Childhood Education
Program Description
Students enrolled in the Early Childhood Education Program at WRCC share the desire to make the world a better place for children and families. In the Early Childhood Education Program at the WRCC, students will develop the knowledge, skills, and experience to work effectively with young children aged birth to age eight and their families. These skills are based on industry standards and professional competencies in child development, family and community, teaching and learning, health and safety, professionalism, and program organization.
This program is excellent for students interested in the development of children, who enjoy interpersonal communications and working with a variety of people, who care about making a difference for children and families in the community, and who want to gain theoretical background and practical experience in the field of education and early education.
Participants in this program will learn how to practice and model effective communication, use observation strategies, and develop partnerships with children and their families. Hands-on learning experiences enable students to design lessons and activities and build a supportive community of learners. Students will learn strategies to maintain a safe, healthy, and nurturing learning environment in all early learning settings.
This program aims to help students explore early childhood education pathways and demonstrate preparedness for work and continuing study in the early childhood field. The program provides dual enrollment college credits.
Level I
During year one of Early Childhood Education, the focus will be on developing a fundamental understanding of early childhood education and preparing for work in the field of Early Childhood. The work of an early childhood educator is creative and intentional. Learning how to support the growth and development of young children through developmentally appropriate play experiences and practices enhances the success of the new early childhood educator. Course content includes designing, implementing, and assessing early childhood environments and creating lesson plans and program materials. Topics include the history of early childhood education, advocacy, family-centered early childhood education, curriculum models, and the development of the self as a professional. During the second semester, students will explore the young child's development and utilze previously learned content to intentionally support the growth and development of the children. Students are required to participate in fieldwork at local early childhood education programs.
Level II
Building on the learning during Early Childhood Education I, in this course students will develop an understanding of the child with diverse abilities. Course content includes: Students will understand the importance of observation and assessment and explore various observation techniques and screening tools. Topics include developmental theories, history, philosophy, legislation, recommended practices for supporting children with diverse abilities, family-centered practice, early intervention, at-risk populations, inclusion, and referrals. The second semester will unite the two years as students develop effective communication and relationship-building skills with colleagues, children, and families. Students will complete a capstone project. After completing the two years of study, students will be prepared to work as assistant teachers in early childhood education classrooms. Students are required to participate in fieldwork at local early childhood education programs.
For more detailed information go to our Program of Study.
Industry Recognized Credentials
First Aid
CPR
Your Instructor
Kim Freeman
I have been in the field of early childhood education for over thirty years working as a Family Child Care Provider, Lead Teacher, Center Director and Head Start Education Coordinator and a certified instructor for professional development through the Northern Lights Career Development Center. I am a member of the VtAEYC Task Force to professionalize the field of Early Childhood Education.
I decided to join WRCC as the Early Childhood Education instructor to round out my career where I started, as I was a student at the Windham Regional Career Center. I have a desire to help build the future early childhood education workforce and therefore impact young children for generations to come.
