This certificate prepares students to assist Speech-Language Pathologists in treating disorders of communication for children between the ages of birth-3 years of age. Such disorders may be related to language, oral motor movements, and hearing. Topics include infant and toddler development, children with special needs, Early Intervention therapy techniques, childhood language development, and fieldwork experience.
Successful completion of the Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA) program qualifies the student to earn an Associate in Science degree in Speech-Language Pathology. The SLPA graduate possesses the course work and field work experience to apply to the Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology and Hearing Aid Dispensers Board (SLPAHADB) for registration as a Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA) in the State of California. The registered SLPA may work in both private and public agencies, such as hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and the public schools serving infants through adult-age clients. This certificate will indicate specialized learning opportunities for addressing the communicative needs of the Early Intervention (EI) population.

Student Learning Outcomes
✔ describe various communication disorders affecting children ages birth-3 years, including etiology and remediation techniques.
✔ demonstrate skills needed to assist in the management of Early Intervention (EI) speech-language pathology programs and services.
✔ describe the therapeutic process especially in terms of how learning occurs and strategies for effective lesson delivery for the EI population.
✔ implement a treatment protocol as prescribed by the supervising Speech-Language Pathologist.
✔ explain service provision differences between home and clinic therapeutic models for the EI population.
✔ describe professional responsibilities and ethical behavior appropriate for the Speech-Language Pathology Assistant.