Investing in Children

The early years shape a life. Research in child development has demonstrated that during the years from birth through 6 years old, important growth occurs in all domains, including social, emotional, cognitive, linguistic and physical development. The early childhood educator – whether a teacher, family or child care provider – plays a critical role in fostering children’s development and investing in their future.

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In OCCC’s Early Childhood Education program, we offer you the skills you need to succeed in the world of early childhood development, early childhood education centers, preschool programming, infant and toddler care, and family child care programs. Employment opportunities may include teaching assistant, child care aide, lead teacher, family child care provider and program director.

Intended Learning Outcomes

Early Childhood Education Program Outcomes 

Additional Information

Prospective Student Information

Early Childhood Education Admission Checklist

Observation and Practicum Requirements

Prior Learning Credit Information

Program Brochure

Early Childhood Education Scholarship Application

OCCC Cost of Attendance Page

Plan how you’ll pay for college

Course Descriptions

Early Childhood Education Curriculum Map and Costs

Early Childhood Education Course Descriptions 

Career Information

Early Childhood Education Career Pathways

Careers

Early Childhood Education graduates will acquire:

• Excellent communication skills, including excellent verbal and written English skills
• Understanding of their role as professionals in the field
• Ability to implement observation and guidance techniques to address children’s needs
• Ability to develop and plan activities and environments appropriate for individual children and for diverse groups of children and their families.

What will I do on the job?

Teachers and home care providers plan the environment and develop suitable learning experiences for young children in care and education situations. They supervise play and meet physical needs of small children. They assess children’s progress and discuss a child’s development with parents. As a specialist, you will work closely with young children and their families as the children learn to communicate, solve problems and work and play together. It will be your job to help provide an environment that fosters growth and self-esteem – a place where children can thrive. Early childhood graduates may also work in related fields such as child care resource and referral.

What skills will I use on the job?

OCCC’s program is designed to develop your ability to understand children and their families; observe and assess children; guide children individually and in groups; plan and implement activities; develop and maintain environments where children will thrive; supervise assistants or other teachers; communicate with parents daily and in formal conferences; refer families and children with special needs to appropriate community resources; provide nutritious snacks; identify and correct safety hazards; and maintain children’s and a center’s records.

Who will hire me?

Graduates of this program are hired by Head Start programs, day-care centers, parent cooperative preschools, private preschools and kindergartens, and resource and referral agencies. Public schools hire graduates as teaching assistants and parents hire graduates as nannies. Most jobs are located in or near cities. Some graduates also start their own in-home childcare and preschool programs.

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