Certificate

This program is primarily for students who work with children/their families. It provides theoretical and practical information enabling students to develop job skills for working with infants, toddlers, school age children and their families. Students learn the developmental needs of children and developmentally appropriate activities for children of various ages. Students receive the training in the physical, social, emotional and psychological needs of children.  Information on children with special needs and the impacts on their families are included in the program along with an emphasis on diversity and the professionalism needed for working with children and their families. Students become aware of the effects of social conditions on the development of children and study the laws and regulations pertaining to children and agencies that work with them.

Upon successful completion of the program, the graduate will:

1. Integrate appropriate theories and practices to create, implement and evaluate developmentally effective experiences for children and their families.
2. Work with children of diverse ages, abilities and cultures in multiple field experiences in child care and educational environments as they identify community resources to support children and their families.
3. Apply appropriate observation and assessment strategies to positively influence children’s development and learning as they employ appropriate discipline terminology and professional tone in written and oral communication.
4. Utilize student-prepared tools and strategies that reflect content and pedagogical knowledge of intentional and responsive practice.
5. Identify core values and ethical behavior standards of the profession by exercising sensitivity, professionalism, confidentiality and competency when interacting with children, families, co-workers, community representatives and policy agents.

Students can complete the certificate before pursuing a degree program. Courses in the program are also helpful for parents.

Students must be eligible for clearances through the Federal Criminal History Record (Act 114), Pennsylvania State Police Criminal History Check (Act 34) and the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare Child Abuse History Record Check (Act 151) and meet local requirements of the field placement site.

Completion of this program enables students to work in child care centers, family day care homes, schools, agencies serving students with special needs or as in-home child care professionals. Graduates may seek employment as a child care assistant, nanny or as an early childhood educational assistant.