This early childhood education certificate meets the education requirements for the teacher level of the Child Development Permit Matrix issued by the State of California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. After meeting additional experience requirements and a fingerprint clearance, graduates are qualified to apply for a Child Development Permit from the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing, which is required to work in federal and state funded programs for children aged 0-5.

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 the 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.