Early Intervention/Special Education Assistant

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.

should be taken in 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.

US History recommended for transfer options

See the full list: SMC GE Area II-A Course (opens in new window)

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.

This course introduces students to the variations in development of individuals with special needs, with special emphasis on children ages birth through eight and the resulting impact on families. Content includes an overview of historical and societal influences, laws related to children with special needs, and identification and referral processes. The course covers various categories of disability, including learning disabilities, physical disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disabilities, emotional and behavioral disorders, communication disorders, visual and hearing impairments, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and giftedness.

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 covers curriculum and intervention strategies for working with children with special needs in partnership with families. The course focuses on the use of observation and assessment, accommodations, and curriculum modifications in meeting the individual needs of children in inclusive and natural environments. Content includes cultural awareness and competence, professional partnerships with families, and collaboration with interdisciplinary teams.

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.

Under guided supervision, this course provides students with fieldwork experience working with infants, toddlers and/or young children with exceptionalities. Students will gain practical experience that reinforces connections between theory and practice, develops professional behaviors, and builds a comprehensive understanding of service provision for young children with exceptional abilities and needs and their families. Course work focuses on employing evidence-based practice to meet the individual needs of children in a variety of early intervention and educational settings. These include natural environments, self-contained special education classrooms, and full inclusion classrooms. Students will function in the role of an early intervention or special education assistant in professional partnership with a supervising teacher/early intervention specialist. Students will be required to complete a total of 90 hours, (30 days/1 day equals 3 or more hours) at their approved practicum site. Students must bring evidence of a current SMC Livescan form and a TB test clearance on the first day of class.

CSU GE Area 1A Course recommended for transfer options

additional CSU GE Course recommended

additional CSU GE Course recommended