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The Infant and Toddler Certificate of Achievement is intended for professionals and paraprofessionals working in the field of infant/toddler care in all settings including center-based care, family child-care programs, and community-based programs that support infants, toddlers, and their families. This short-term training Certificate builds on the knowledge gained by the Child Development Associate credential (CDA) in infant/toddler development. It is an appropriate professional development step for individuals planning to enter the field of infant/toddler care giving. The certificate is designed to enable candidates to demonstrate competencies in the eight key areas required for the NJ Infant Toddler credential. It is designed as a career program experience.
A. Depending upon a student's placement or for transfer purposes, this program may have pre-requisite(s). See a pathway coordinator or student development specialist for advisement.
B. This program requires the completion of a Criminal History Record Check (CHRC) to ensure that it is appropriate for the student to be in contact with children and participate in field experiences.
C. The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) requires criminal history record checks, including fingerprints, for all childcare personnel, volunteers and other individuals who will have regular contact with children in a licensed childcare program, in accordance with N.J.S.A.18A: 6-7.1. See https://nj.gov/education/educators/crimhist/
This course explores essential elements involved in setting the foundation for the mental health and development of infants and toddlers. It examines the importance of identifying and
meeting their social/emotional needs and how these needs relate to the caregiver’s interactive process. The course integrates the implementation of developmental brain research with the interactive process of caregiving with a special focus on developmentally appropriate practices and techniques in the childcare setting.
Fall, Spring
This course includes a study of the requirements for the Child Development Associate National Credential (CDA). Students will acquire a working knowledge of child growth and development principles. Skills and strategies for managing an effective program and planning a safe, healthful learning environment are emphasized. Students will practice via class discussion, role play and other process oriented techniques the knowledge attitudes and skills for supporting and advancing child growth in physical, intellectual, social, and emotional development.
Fall, Spring
This course expands on the student’s knowledge of child growth and development principles acquired during ECE 110, and focuses on the practical skills needed to become a Child Development Associate. They will complete the professional portfolio which is part of the CDA application process.
ECE 110 - Child Development Associate (CDA) I
Spring 15 wk semester, Fall 15 wk semester
This course includes six (6) hours a week of field experience in early childhood settings to allow students to apply knowledge and skills under the supervision of an early care and education professional. Emphasis is placed on designing, implementing and evaluating developmentally appropriate activities and environments for all children and demonstrating reflective and professional practices. Includes weekly seminar meetings. 90 fieldwork hours.
ECE 107 - Nurturing Mental Health in Early Childhood
OR
ECE 210 - Child Development Associate (CDA) Field Experience
Spring 15 wk semester, Fall 15 wk semester
