Early Childhood Education
Credentials:
Topics:
- Child development and psychology
- Health, safety, and nutrition for young children
- Creating a developmentally appropriate environment
- Language and literacy development
- Play-based learning and activities
- Working with families and communities
- Special needs education and inclusive practices
- Science, math, and technology in early childhood education
- Classroom management and organization
- Career exploration and job readiness
- And more!
Program Overview
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.
What Do Early Childhood Education Graduates Do?
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
Careers in this Field
Immediate Careers:
- Daycare Worker
- Nanny
- Preschool Teacher Assistant
- Childcare Provider
- After-School Program Staff
- Head Start Teacher
- Babysitter
- Children's Museum Educator
- Family Home Daycare Provider
- Camp Counselor
Careers with an associate's degree:
- Preschool Teacher
- Early Childhood Program Director
- Curriculum Specialist
- Child Life Specialist
- Special Education Assistant
- Early Intervention Specialist
- Parent Educator or Coach
- Childcare Center Director
- Head Start Program Coordinator
- Teacher Trainer or Mentor
Careers with a bachelor's degree or beyond:
- Early Childhood Education Professor
- Program Evaluator
- Education Policy Analyst
- Curriculum Developer or Consultant
- School Administrator or Superintendent
- Researcher or Academic Writer
- Special Education Teacher
- Early Childhood Intervention Coordinator
- Child Advocacy Specialist
- Play Therapist