Early Childhood Education

The Early Childhood Education program at Collins Career Technical Center provides high school students with the knowledge and skills to work with young children in various settings. The program offers a hands-on curriculum that covers child development, health and safety, behavior guidance, curriculum planning, and family engagement. Students also have the opportunity to gain practical experience through classroom observation, internships, and working in an on-campus preschool. Early Childhood Education program graduates are prepared for entry-level positions in childcare centers, preschools, and elementary schools. They can also continue their education in college to pursue careers in teaching, counseling, and social work.

Childcare workers typically do the following:

• Supervise and monitor the safety of children
• Prepare and organize mealtimes and snacks for children
• Help children keep good hygiene
• Change the diapers of infants and toddlers
• Organize activities or implement a curriculum that allows children to learn about the world and explore their interests
• Develop schedules and routines to ensure that children have enough physical activity, rest, and playtime
• Watch for signs of emotional or developmental problems in children and bring potential problems to the attention of parents or guardians
• Keep records of children’s progress, routines, and interests