Early Childhood Education

Orientation and Student Success Skills

This course will provide a comprehensive orientation to Stenberg College and the program you have enrolled in. As with all new things, there will be some challenges and excitement; this course, will explore transitioning as a college student, review learning styles, enhance critical thinking, and familiarize you with the resources available for your use. This course covers student success skills where you’ll learn effective study habits (specifically to improving both reading and writing skills) based on your own personal learning style. Life skills exercises are also integral to the course, teaching communication, accountability, teamwork, self-awareness and building an understanding of the impact you have on others.

Early Childhood Education Foundations

This course provides an introduction to the history and philosophy of Early Childhood Education. Major contemporary trends, social issues and historical influences are examined.

Child Growth & Development I

Course material spans the period from conception through the preschool years and examines physical, cognitive, language, and social-emotional growth and development. An introductory study of theories, principles of development, and child study techniques is included.

Child Growth & Development II

Part II reviews the major theories of child development during middle childhood and adolescence in the areas of physical, social, emotional, cultural and intellectual development. An introductory study of theories, principles of development, and child study techniques is included.

Emerging Curriculum

This course will introduce you to various educational programs for young children. It will also examine the role of the Early Childhood Educator in establishing an environment that facilitates learning through play.

Observation & Recording

This course will develop your skill in objectively observing and recording the behaviour of young children. Different kinds of observational techniques will be explored and weekly observations will contribute to a major part of this course. You’ll develop skill in observing, recording and documenting children. Based on these observations you’ll begin to interpret behaviours and develop effective intervention strategies.

Health, Safety, and Nutrition

Issues such as safety, hygiene, recognition and management of childhood illness, meal planning, and emergency procedures within an early childhood environment are covered in detail by this course.

Guidance & Caring

The focus of this course is on the role of the adult in guidance, discipline and behaviour management. It highlights theories, models and skills related to promoting healthy emotional and social development at both the individual and group level.

Curriculum Development Courses (Music & Movement, Creative Art, Language & Literature, Science, Socials & Math)

With these courses, you’ll acquire knowledge, experience and skill in curriculum planning and teaching strategies. In addition, you’ll learn how to implement and evaluate different learning environments for children.

Family-Teacher Relations

The family-teacher-community partnership will be examined with the focus being on attitudes, knowledge and skills related to interpersonal communication at the adult level. Emphasis is on the community school model.

Practicum Seminar & PRO120 Practicum 1 & 2

The purpose of this time is to provide you with the opportunity to develop the skills necessary to work with young children. You’ll demonstrate your competency by applying appropriate and suitable affective qualities associated with effective early childhood education, as well as by applying developmentally appropriate child care guidance and curriculum planning. NOTE: During each block practicum period, you will be on site in a licensed childcare facility.

Career Search Strategies

This course is offered in a combined online and classroom delivery format. You will learn to network effectively (online and in person), to search and apply for jobs and to prepare targeted resumes and cover letters. You will also be provided with coaching and individualized instructor feedback on your resume, cover letter, and interview skills.