COURSE DESCRIPTION

This course is designed to provide the student with an in-depth look at developmentally appropriate practices (DAP) including assessment and curriculum for infant, toddler and two (IT) programs. A study of observational techniques and developmentally appropriate assessments for the very young child will be emphasized, including informal and formal assessment techniques. Special attention will focus assessment and its use in guiding decision-making and instructional planning. The course will lead students through the process of planning and implementing the curriculum, focusing on developmentally appropriate practices that promote the very young child’s total well-being including play, physical growth and development, mental health, emotional stability, brain development, and human relationships.  Emphasis will be placed on the learning environment.  Students will participate in a minimum of 15 hours of required field experience.

TEXT:  The Creative Curriculum for Infants, Toddlers and Twos (Volumes 1-3).  Diane Trister Dodge, Sherrie Rudick and Kai-Lee Berke.  Teaching Strategies, Inc.  2011.

Part 407 Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) Day Care Licensing Standards.  Revised September, 2014.  http://www.state.il.us/dcfs/docs/407.pdf  (Licensing Standards are also available in the Bookstore)

Three credit hour course.

FORMAT:  Online course, spring semester only.  ECE 1202 – is a pre-requisite.