Early Childhood Education
The Early Childhood Education program at Prairie State College provides comprehensive
training in child development, curriculum design, and teaching strategies, preparing
students for rewarding careers in education.
Welcome to the Prairie State College Early Childhood Education program, where we cultivate
the next generation of passionate, dedicated educators. At PSC, we are committed to
providing a comprehensive and dynamic learning experience that prepares students to
excel in the field of early childhood education.
Our program emphasizes hands-on learning, professional development, and a deep understanding
of child development theories. Through a combination of classroom instruction, practical
experience, and community engagement, students gain the skills and knowledge needed
to positively impact young learners.
Early Childhood Education
Certificate and Degree Program Outcomes
For individuals who enjoy seeing children gain new skills, PSC’s Child and Family Studies Program is an excellent option. Program graduates teach and nurture preschoolers in child care centers, preschools, and family child care homes.
As an Illinois Gateways to Opportunity entitled institution, completion of course requirements for the A.A.S. degree can lead to an Illinois early Childhood Teacher Credential 2, 3, or 4. Students who pursue an Illinois Infant-Toddler Teacher Credential 1 or an Illinois Director Credential 1 can complete the requirements for those credentials through the Early Childhood Education elective choices. Students should seek more information from the Early Childhood Education/Child and Family Studies Coordinator.This program teaches the practical skills necessary to provide direct home care to young children in day care and preschool centers, home daycare sites, and community based centers. Students are prepared for employment as teachers and child care assistants and other entry-level positions in the child care field. Because Prairie State is an entitled institution, the courses in the certificate program can be used to meet Illinois Gateway Childhood Teacher credentials.
This program teaches the practical skills necessary to provide direct care to young children in day care and preschool centers, home daycare sites, and community-based centers. Students are prepared for employment as teachers and child care assistants, as well as other entry-level positions in the child care field.
Learning Objectives:
Upon completion of this program, students will be able to demonstrate their knowledge
of:
- The major domains in child development and theories of typical and atypical growth in all developmental domains, as well as the interaction between individual and contextual factors on development and learning
- The role of the environment in supporting children’s development, including nutrition, health, and safety licensing requirements for childcare settings
- The importance of relationships in supporting positive developmental and behavioral outcomes, as well as demonstrate a basic understanding of the childcare worker’s obligations for health nutrition and safety of children.
This program prepares students to meet Illinois Department of Children and Family Services requirements to be an Early Childhood Education Center Director. Students must also have completed two years of college credit. Since PSC is an entitled institution, these courses can be used to meet Illinois Gateways Director Credential 1 requirements.
Learning Objectives:
Upon completion of this program, students will be able to demonstrate their knowledge
of:
1. The knowledge and skills needed to succeed as an early childhood administrator
and identify the characteristics of successful program administration
2. Illinois state and local regulations for child care centers and Pre-K programs
3. Practices to engage staff, families, community stakeholders, and professional
organizations in support of high quality early childhood services for young children
and their families.
This degree program is designed for individuals who want to work directly with young children and their families in early care and education programs, human service organizations, or professional development services. The program provides both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
Learning Objectives:
Upon completion of this program, students will be able to demonstrate their knowledge
of:
- The theories and principles of child growth and development from prenatal through the adolescent years and the relationship between careful observation, assessment, and effective interaction of children
- Ways in which the structure, values, and resources of family and community affect children and practices that foster children’s wellbeing through creating curriculum and environments that support physical and social growth and good communication with parents
- Nutrition, health, and safety licensing requirements for childcare settings and demonstrate a basic understanding of the childcare worker’s obligations for health nutrition and safety of children, as well as the legal responsibilities of a director of an early childhood center