Students enrolled in the Child Care Services program learn and practice the skills necessary to improve the quality of care and education provided for young children. Students study all phases of child development (physical, social, emotional, and intellectual). They develop skills in story-telling and in presenting art, music, movement, math, language arts, and science activities for groups of children; create, plan and write weekly lesson plans; design bulletin boards, newsletters and other teaching tools; plan and prepare nutritional food for children; and operate a laboratory school for 3-5 year old children three days a week during the school year.
Student Opportunities
- Study how to help the child develop daily living skills
- Learn about the value of play, literature, music, art, math, and science in child development
- Work independently with a combination of learning strategies used to enhance the individuals growth
Course Topics
- Introduction to Early Childhood
- Health and Safety
- Child Study and Observation
- Physical, Cognitive, Social and Emotional Development
- Nutrition
- Behavior Management
- Communication Skills
- Early Intervention
- Professionalism
- Clinical Experience
- Internship and/or Cooperative Education
Partnership Programs
College credit for successful completion of the CTE Child Care program may be awarded by the following schools: Community College of Allegheny County (6 credits), Harrisburg Area Community College (9 credits), Harcum College (9 credits), Lackawanna College (9 credits), Montgomery County Community College (6 credits), Pennsylvania Highlands Community College (9 credits), Reading Area Community College (9 credits), Manor College (9 credits), Community College of Beaver County (9 credits)
Requirements
- Ability to use the four basic math operations involving whole numbers, fractions, decimals and percentages
- Demonstrate good attendance, healthy living habits and commitment to families and education
- Ability to effectively communicate with children and adults
- Ability to read, comprehend and interpret written materials
- Follow written and oral directions and legal requirements
- Meet physical exam requirements as specified by the state including child abuse and criminal history clearances as required by employers
- Ability to comprehend and demonstrate industry safety standards
Career Opportunities
- Family Day Care Provider
- Nanny
- Recreational Counselor
- Primary Classroom Aide
- Infant Care-Giver
- Assistant Group Supervisor
- Head Start Child Development Specialist