This certificate prepares students to meet the demands of today’s childcare centers, preschool programs, and nursery schools. The certificate meets the California State Department of Social Services, Community Care Licensing Title 22, and Division 12 requirements for a fully qualified teacher. The early childhood education basic certificate is an alternative certificate to the California State Matrix and to the child development certificate.

To earn a certificate of achievement, students must complete each course used to meet a certificate requirement with a “C” grade or higher. Attending classes in the day, the evening, or both can complete certificate requirements.

Students completing this program will be able to...

- identify developmentally appropriate activities for infants, toddlers and preschool age children.

- analyze the psychological, physical and cognitive influences on child development.

- apply the professional code of ethics.

- evaluate strategies to maximize the health, safety and nutrition of children in early childhood education programs.

- create a developmentally appropriate integrated curriculum.

- assess how socializing agents impact the lives of children and families.

- apply the principles of anti-bias pedagogy.

- apply observation and assessments to create appropriate environments.

- apply positive guidance skills with young children.

- apply constructivist theory and intentional teaching methodologies to teacher child interactions.