There are tons of myths swirling around about early childhood education. One of the most popular misconceptions is that early childhood educators are just babysitters for children too young to be in school. This couldn’t be farther from the truth.
It’s proven that education in the early years is crucial in determining the development and success of young minds, and is the foundation for all future learning, behavior and health.
Not everyone has the skillset and demeanor needed to become an educator. Early childhood educators are caring and passionate individuals that have skills in organization, communication, creativity and of course, patience.
If you’re interested in pursuing a degree or certificate in early childhood education, your coursework will ensure you’re equipped with the understanding of how children learn in their first years, and how they develop socially and emotionally.
Here are some interesting classes you can take if you pursue a degree or certificate in early childhood education.
Health, Safety, and Nutrition Education
Because young children aren’t yet self-sufficient, every adult they’re around should ensure they’re safe and taken care of. This course will focus on the health and developmental needs of children, emphasizing positive health, hygiene, nutrition, and feeding routines, childhood diseases and safety issues. You’ll also learn about supporting the mental and physical well-being of children, as well as procedures for reporting child abuse.
Teaching Art, Music, and Movement to Children
Early childhood educators should be able to get creative and see the world through a child’s perspective. In this class, you’ll learn about children’s exploration, play, and creative expression in the areas of art, music, and movement. You’ll also gain strategies for using various open-ended media representing a range of approaches in creative thinking.
Guiding the Behavior of Children
These early years are where children learn to socialize, work with others and communicate their needs. This class will explore the role of the early childhood educator in supporting emotional and social development of children and in fostering a sense of community. You’ll be presented with practical strategies for encouraging prosocial behavior, conflict resolution, and problem solving.
Early Childhood Programs, Schools, and Social Change
The experiences a child has at school matter at home as well. In this course, you’ll explore methods of developing positive, effective relations with families to enhance their developmental goals for children. The course will also consider culture and other diverse needs, perspectives and abilities of families and educators while emphasizing advocacy and public policy awareness as an important role of early childhood educators.
Developmental Psychology
In this psychology course, you’ll study the development of the individual from conception to death. It will follow a life-span perspective on the developmental tasks of the person’s physical, cognitive and psychosocial growth.
To learn more about G3-approved programs at your local community college, use our College Locator tool and be sent directly to your local community college’s G3 page.
