Infant/Toddler Teacher

This course will examine the major developmental milestones for children, both typically and atypically developing, from conception through adolescence in the areas of physical, psychosocial, and cognitive development. Emphasis will be on interactions between maturational and environmental factors within a culturally sensitive framework. While studying developmental theory and investigative research methodologies, students will observe children, evaluate individual differences and analyze characteristics of development at various stages.

recommended to be taken during intersession PRIOR to ECE 2

This course examines the historical contexts and theoretical principles of developmentally appropriate and best practices in early care and education for children birth through age eight. It explores the typical roles and expectations of early childhood educators. It identifies professional ethics, career pathways, and professional standards. It introduces best practices for developmentally appropriate learning environments, curriculum, and effective pedagogy for young children including how play contributes to children's learning, growth, and development. This class is appropriate for students wanting to work with young children in a variety of programs, including infant-toddler, preschool, transitional kindergarten, and kindergarten.

This introductory course in rhetoric emphasizes clear, effective written communication and preparation of the research paper.

This course provides an exploration of intellectual, psychological, social and physical factors that impact lifelong learning, well-being and success. Topics include motivation and self-efficacy; critical thinking, academic integrity and active study strategies; health issues and lifestyle choices; relating to others as a global citizen; written and oral communication; time management; career exploration; and educational planning.

This course is an examination of the developing child in a societal context, focusing on the interrelationship of family, school and community and the influence of multiple societal contexts. It explores the role of collaboration between family, community, and schools in supporting children’s development, birth through adolescence. Studies of family systems in contemporary society as they impact children and their individual heritage, diverse culture, ability and language will be examined, highlighting at least three major American cultures (Latina/o American, African American, Asian American, Native American, and European American). The processes of socialization and identity development will be highlighted, showing the importance of respectful, reciprocal relationships that support and empower families.

This course covers developmentally appropriate curriculum and environments for children birth through age eight. Students will use knowledge of children’s development, theories of learning and development, observation and assessment, and examples from various models of developmentally appropriate practice to plan environments and curriculum in all content areas and support children’s development and learning, integrated throughout indoor and outdoor settings. It explores the teacher's role in supporting development and learning across the curriculum.

ENGL 2 or CSU GE Area A3 Course recommended for transfer options

See the full list: SMC GE Area III Course (opens in new window)

This course is a supervised field experience which focuses on the appropriate use of assessment and observation tools and strategies to document young children’s development and learning. The use of findings to inform and plan learning environments and experiences is emphasized. Recording strategies, rating systems, portfolios, and multiple assessment tools will be practiced, along with strategies for collaboration with families and professionals. Students are required to have a current TB test, a Live Scan completed at SMC, and proof of immunizations, including T-Dap, MMR, and proof of a COVID vaccine for most placement sites, prior to the course start date. Students will also be required to complete 20 days of supervised field experience in an instructor-approved early childhood setting, (1 day equals 3 or more hours).

This course provides an in depth analysis of the physical, social, emotional and cognitive development of infants and toddlers in the context of family. Further, it explores the crucial role that parents and family play in the day to day experiences that promote this primary relationship in a child’s life. Content covered will include assessment measures and direct observations of infants and toddlers which assist teachers and parents in the early identification of children with special needs including making appropriate referrals and providing culturally consistent care.

This course will enhance the capacity of early childhood educators to communicate effectively with families about development and developmental concerns. Topics covered will include an overview of typical and atypical child development, parenting and social challenges faced by families of children with special needs, the importance of developmental screening and effective communication strategies for working with families. The ultimate goal of the course is to enhance the relationships between parents and the providers who serve them.

additional CSU GE Course recommended for transfer options

This course is a demonstration of developmentally appropriate early childhood planning and teaching competencies under the supervision of ECE faculty and other qualified early education professionals. Students will utilize practical classroom experiences to make connections between theory and practice, develop professional behaviors, and build a comprehensive understanding of children and families. Reflective practice will be emphasized as student teachers design, implement, and evaluate approaches, strategies, and techniques that promote development and learning. The course includes exploration of career pathways, professional development, and teacher responsibilities. Students are required to have a current TB test, Livescan completed at SMC, and proof of immunizations, including T-Dap, MMR, and proof of a COVID vaccine for most placement sites, prior to the course start date. Students will be required to complete 30 days in an instructor-approved early childhood setting, (1 day equals 3 or more hours).

This course applies current theory and research to the care and education of infants and toddlers in group settings. It examines essential policies, principles and practices that lead to quality care and developmentally appropriate curriculum for children birth to 36 months. It will include basic principles of care giving, arrangement and equipping the environment; working with other staff, parents and the community; identifying children with special needs and making appropriate referrals, and providing culturally consistent care.

additional CSU GE Course recommended for transfer options

additional CSU GE Course recommended for transfer options