Child Growth, Development, and Social Emotional Characteristics

Catalog description

This course will provide emphasis on developing a deep understanding of typical and atypical human development, emotional and social development, and major theories of learning in early childhood settings, from birth to age eight. Course content includes the various areas of exceptionality in terms of causes, characteristics, and individual differences related to cultural and language diversity and the educational implications for these children. Specific intervention strategies for adapting the learning environment and modifying instruction to make the classroom and curriculum accessible to all children, through inclusion and self-contained placements of those with special education needs. Teacher candidates will learn how developmental delays, health and educational issues infants and young children are identified. Planning for family support, involvement, and understanding how a child with a disability impacts the family system is addressed. Strategies and techniques for ameliorating delays and facilitating academic and functional integration of children with disabilities in various settings are included. Teacher candidates will learn about their role and responsibilities as a general and special education early childhood educator when working with students with diverse abilities in both collaborative, co-teaching relationships in general and special education settings.