Courses listed in the Child Development category provide students with a basis of knowledge regarding curriculum and environment. These course satisfy Maryland core knowledge requirements by covering the following key topics:Strategies to facilitate learning and development, including the significance of play, emergent curriculum in learning, and continuity of careBest practices, including developmentally appropriate practices, that focus on the needs/interests of all children and youth and consider culturally-valued content and home experiencesLearning experiences that help all children and youth develop emerging intellectual curiosity, problem-solving and decision-making skills, and critical thinking Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) College and Career-Ready Standards for English Language Proficiency; Fine Arts; Health; History/Social Studies; Mathematics; Media; Physical Education; Reading/English Language Arts; Science; STEAM/STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, and Mathematics); Technology/Computer Skills; and World LanguagesIntegration of learning experiences with curriculum theories and current researchApproaches to learning and learning stylesSchedule management and transitionsPlanning and implementation of appropriate environments that facilitate development in all domains for all children and youthDesign of new environments or modification of existing ones that nurture and educate all children and youth and meet state regulatory requirementsAppropriate equipment and materials for both indoor and outdoor learning environmentsCultural responsiveness and inclusionary practices.
Supporting Boys in The Early Childhood Classroom: The needs of boys and girls differ widely. Early Childhood professionals must consider these differences in their planning and teaching. This course provides some practical strategies for creating a responsive early childhood environment for boys.
“Technology is a tool. When used correctly, technology can support and advance children’s learning. Participants should take this workshop to learn strategies for integrating technology into the early childhood program in developmentally appropriate ways. Prerequisite Knowledge Required: An understanding of the importance of using a variety of developmentally appropriate activities that support a child’s […]
Social studies forms the foundation for “civic competence.” This course will help participants learn how to implement a developmentally appropriate social studies curriculum. This is a competent level training. Prerequisites Required–Experience teaching preschool-aged children.
Traditional sitting positions during circle time, such as “criss-cross applesauce,” may not be suitable for all children due to developmental challenges and the potential negative impact on attention, engagement, and emotional well-being. In this workshop, we will explore alternative strategies that allow for a variety of sitting positions and incorporate active motor play to enhance children’s learning experience.
This workshop explores the surprising benefits of this classic activity. You’ll explore how parachute play helps children develop in many ways, from gross motor skills to teamwork and imagination. We’ll transform your perspective on parachutes and equip you with a toolbox of engaging games and activities to use at home, school, or anywhere fun happens […]
Through this workshop, participants will explore and address some common concerns about superhero play in the early childhood setting. Participants will also learn some of the benefits of superhero play.
A multi-age classroom is not merely a group of different aged students placed in the same class. Instead, it is a well organized and thoroughly thought out program designed to take advantage of the natural diversity created. This course is designed to highlight the benefits of mixed-age grouping.
“Transitions occur throughout the day in all early childhood programs. Sometimes, these transitions can be challenging. This course examines strategies for ensuring smooth transitions. Prerequisite: An understanding of transitions in the early childhood classroom. “
This innovative course is designed for educators interested in integrating puppetry into educational settings to enhance learning and engagement among young children. Participants will explore the multifaceted roles of puppets in early childhood education. The course offers a deep dive into the developmental benefits of puppetry and basic puppeteering techniques. By the end of this […]
