Early Childhood Education, Certificate of Proficiency

66 CREDITS

Program Admission Dates: Fall, Winter, Spring, Summer

Theoretical knowledge is gained through evening classroom lectures; practical experience takes place in college labs and in family- and center-based programs where students are employed. Students develop competencies necessary to plan, implement, and evaluate a quality program for children, following National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) standards. Program prepares students to seek new employment or update professional skills and knowledge as a family care provider; program supervisor of child care center; child care manager; and lead teacher in child care/ preschool programs.

Early Childhood Education Certificate graduates will:

• be prepared for a lead teacher or entry-level management position in the child care field
• be able to plan, implement and evaluate programs for young children
• be able to document children’s growth and skill development
• be able to apply developmentally appropriate guidance techniques
• plan and implement activities that promote social, cognitive, language and motor skills
• be able to apply Washington Administrative Code (WAC) requirements to work environment
• be able to work in a cooperative and supportive manner with parents
• maintain a safe and healthy environment for young children
• follow a work guideline as outlined in staff operations manual
• participate willingly in staff development activities
• follow the fiscal guidelines of the place of employment
• demonstrate critical thinking, teamwork, communication, intercultural appreciation, and information literacy skills

Lake Washington Institute of Technology does not offer every course each quarter. It is the student’s responsibility to consult the Class Schedule and work out an individual schedule with a program adviser. Any developmental coursework a student may be required to complete may increase the program length.