The Early Childhood Education Program

At North and South High Schools

The Early Childhood Education programs at North High (non-Chapter 74) and South High (Chapter 74) are career/vocational technical education programs, which focus on the physical, intellectual, social, and emotional development of the child from birth to age five.

Students examine the work of early theorists in the field and how the theorists’ work relates to teaching and learning of young children.

Students will also gain knowledge of the responsibilities teachers have associated with Early Childhood programs.

Students become familiar with state and federal agencies such as the Department of Children and Families, child abuse and reporting, and community resources available for children.

Certifications Available

  • Occupational Safety and Health Administration Certificate (OSHA 10): This is a 10-week training program for all Early Childhood Education 2 students that covers safety and health in the workplace.

  • EEC StrongStart: A 12-hour certification program for future childcare providers for students in Early Childhood Education 3. This certification will train students in the essentials of childcare. Topics covered include but are not limited to recognizing child abuse and following state guidelines in an emergency. All students create an account to continue their professional training throughout junior year. Students are required to complete 10 hours of training a year.

  • American Red Cross Adult/Child/Infant CPR/First Aid/AED Certification: All students will be certified by an instructor through the American Red Cross training in adult/child/infant cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), first aid, and automated external defibrillator (AED).

Course Offerings

Early Childhood Education 1

Sample Lessons from Units 1 and 2:

  • Working With Young Children

  • Types of Early Childhood Programs

  • Observing Children: A Tool for Assessment

  • Understanding Children Ages 2 and 3

  • Understanding Children Ages 4 and 5

  • Middle Childhood

  • Preparing the Environment

  • Selecting Toys, Equipment, and Educational Materials

  • Promoting Children's Safety

  • Guiding Children's Health

  • Developing Guidance Skills

Early Childhood Education 2

Sample Lessons from Units 3 and 4:

  • Establishing Classroom Limits

  • Handling Daily Routines

  • Curriculum of Learning Experiences for Children

  • Guiding Art, Block-Building, and Sensory Experiences

  • Guiding Storytelling and Language Experiences

  • Guiding Play and Puppetry Experiences

  • Guiding Mathematical Experiences

  • Guiding Science Experiences

  • Guiding Social Studies Experiences

  • Guiding Food and Nutrition Experiences

  • Guiding Music and Movement Experiences

Early Childhood Education 3

Sample Lessons:

  • Programs for Infants and Toddlers

  • Programs for School-Age Children

  • Guiding Children with Special Needs

Early Childhood Education 4

Sample Lessons:

  • Engaging Parents and Families

  • A Career for You in Early Childhood Education

Cooperative Education and Internship Opportunities

All eligible students have the opportunity to participate in Cooperative Education and Internship experiences at a variety of approved learning sites across the city in their junior and/or senior year. While the requirements and specific opportunities vary from school to school, and program to program, the structured combination of classroom based education and practical work experience provides students with the skills necessary to comfortably navigate the world of work.

Career Opportunities

  • Day Care Provider

  • Teacher

  • Public School Teacher

  • Center Director

  • Educational Consultant

  • Teacher Assistant

  • Guidance Counselor

  • Child/Family Social Worker

  • Family Support Specialist