Caregivers Learn From Early Childhood Development Courses
It is often said that children do not come with instructions! Of course, the older child is capable of expressing his or her needs and wants, but for the early childhood years, a good knowledge base can help to provide an environment that will nurture a positive self-image. Fortunately, the internet has made it easy to enroll into a course on early childhood education. In fact, there are over 1,000 classes to choose from, and a large portion of these are free to the public!
For new parents or soon to be parents, these courses will help lower your anxiety of what is to come or to improve parenting skills already in place. They are also available for those who are looking for a career change or to fulfill a state requirement for licensure.
Through many years of research, it is now documented that the first five years of a child’s life are the most important for developing a strong foundation that will lead to success in his or her education and in life. The curriculum will include the positive and negative aspects of early childhood social-emotional development and how to support these areas.
If you are interested in these courses because you consider yourself a child care specialist, but would like to be able to earn a professional certification, these classes will provide you with the needed skills and education, which can lead to better job opportunities. Many employers look for applicants who have earned their certification or CCP from a program that is recognized by the National Child Care Association.
The childcare specialist can choose from a variety of settings and whether or not to work one-on-one or with a small group. Many of these individuals are self-employed and work in the child’s home environment. They are able to choose from regularly scheduled hours or by appointment.
Once you have enrolled into an online program, you will begin your coursework in the areas of child development, psychology, basic nutrition, behavioral observation, ethics, and professional practices in childcare. It may also be a requirement that you complete an internship in a daycare facility prior to graduation.
Another option for you to consider is entering into an online diploma program in early childcare that will take one to two years to complete; however, if you choose an accelerated program, you can complete the requirements much quicker. It may also be possible for you to earn credit for required fundamental classes through CLEP (Credit for Life Experience Program) if you have already of some childcare knowledge. There may also be a required internship with these programs, but your job prospects will reflect the additional education and skills you will receive. The curriculum will include teaching reading skills, creative projects for children, and fitness/playtime activities.