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Child Development

Awards Dual Enroll, AAS

Credit Hours 65

Campus ESCC

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PROGRAMS /

Child Development

What is Child Development, and what will I learn?

Child Development is an integral part of our society. Those who work in Child Development often give parents the opportunity to work or attend school without the worries of who will be watching their children. Not only do these workers impact the parents’ lives, but these Child Development workers are also key to the lives of young children. Child development workers teach and guide our young children.

At Enterprise State Community College, the Child Development program is designed to prepare students for employment in a variety of childcare facilities.

For those who are already working with young children, ESCC’s Child Development program provides an opportunity for them to upgrade their skills and competencies. ESCC offers students a variety of options for them to choose from. Students can choose from any of three short-term certificates, a long-term certificate, or even an Associate of Applied Science degree.

Enterprise State Community College has articulation agreements with Athen’s State University’s College of Education, Troy University’s College of Education, and the University of Alabama’s College of Human Environmental Sciences. These agreements allow students to maximize transfer credits for degree completion.

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Available Credentials & Pathways in Child Development

Child Development (AAS)

Child Development professionals focus on the growth and development of children from birth to adolescence. They study the physical, emotional, social, and cognitive development of children and work to create supportive environments that foster healthy development. This field includes roles in education, health, social services, and advocacy.

Career Opportunities

Upon completing an associate degree or certificate program, graduates can pursue various career paths, including:

  1. Child Care Worker: Providing care and supervision for children in daycare centers, preschools, or family child care settings.
  2. Preschool Teacher: Teaching and supporting preschool-aged children in early childhood education settings.
  3. Family Support Specialist: Working with families to provide resources, support, and education on child development and parenting.
  4. Child Life Specialist: Assisting children in medical settings to cope with hospitalization and health challenges (often requiring further certification).
  5. Head Start Teacher: Educating children in federally funded Head Start programs that support low-income families.

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Child Development (Certificate)

Child Development professionals focus on the growth and development of children from birth to adolescence. They study the physical, emotional, social, and cognitive development of children and work to create supportive environments that foster healthy development. This field includes roles in education, health, social services, and advocacy.

Career Opportunities

Upon completing an associate degree or certificate program, graduates can pursue various career paths, including:

  1. Child Care Worker: Providing care and supervision for children in daycare centers, preschools, or family child care settings.
  2. Preschool Teacher: Teaching and supporting preschool-aged children in early childhood education settings.
  3. Family Support Specialist: Working with families to provide resources, support, and education on child development and parenting.
  4. Child Life Specialist: Assisting children in medical settings to cope with hospitalization and health challenges (often requiring further certification).
  5. Head Start Teacher: Educating children in federally funded Head Start programs that support low-income families.

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Auxiliary Teacher (Short-Term Certificate)

An Auxiliary Teacher (often referred to as a paraprofessional or teacher’s aide) supports teachers in educational settings, assisting with classroom management, instruction, and individualized student support. Their role is vital in enhancing the learning environment and ensuring that students receive the attention they need to succeed.

Career Opportunities

After completing an associate degree or certificate program, graduates can pursue various positions, including:

  1. Teacher’s Aide/Paraprofessional: Assisting teachers in elementary or secondary schools, working directly with students to support learning activities.
  2. Special Education Assistant: Supporting students with disabilities in mainstream classrooms or special education settings.
  3. Child Care Worker: Providing care and educational support in daycare centers, preschools, or after-school programs.
  4. Tutoring or Learning Support: Offering additional help to students who need it, either in schools or privately.
  5. Educational Coordinator: Assisting in organizing educational programs or activities in community centers or after-school programs.

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Childcare Curriculum and Design (Short-Term Certificate)

A Childcare Curriculum Designer focuses on creating, developing, and implementing educational programs and activities tailored for young children in childcare settings. Their work involves designing curricula that promote holistic development, aligning with developmental standards, and ensuring that learning experiences are engaging and age-appropriate.

Career Opportunities

After completing an associate degree or certificate program, graduates can pursue various career paths, including:

  1. Curriculum Specialist: Developing and overseeing educational programs in childcare centers or early childhood education settings.
  2. Educational Consultant: Advising childcare facilities and educators on best practices in curriculum design and implementation.
  3. Lead Teacher: Designing and implementing curriculum as part of leading a classroom in a daycare or preschool.
  4. Program Director: Managing early childhood programs and ensuring that educational standards and goals are met.
  5. Training Coordinator: Providing professional development for childcare staff on curriculum implementation and effective teaching strategies.

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Childcare Program Development and Administration (Short-Term Certificate)

Childcare Program Development and Administration involves creating, managing, and overseeing early childhood education programs, ensuring they meet educational standards and provide a safe, nurturing environment for children. Professionals in this field focus on curriculum development, staff management, compliance with regulations, and community engagement.

Career Opportunities

After completing an associate degree or certificate program, graduates can pursue various career paths, including:

  1. Childcare Center Director: Overseeing the daily operations of a childcare center, including staff management, curriculum implementation, and compliance with regulations.
  2. Program Coordinator: Developing and implementing specific educational programs within childcare facilities or community organizations.
  3. Quality Improvement Specialist: Working with childcare programs to assess and enhance their quality and effectiveness.
  4. Consultant: Advising organizations on best practices in childcare program development and administration.
  5. Trainer/Educator: Providing training and professional development for childcare staff on effective program management and educational practices.

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Foundational Child Development (Short-Term Certificate)

Foundational Child Development focuses on the principles and practices that support the growth and development of young children, typically from birth to age eight. Professionals in this field study and apply developmental theories to create nurturing environments that foster cognitive, social, emotional, and physical growth in children.

Career Opportunities

After completing an associate degree or certificate program, graduates can pursue various roles, including:

  1. Early Childhood Educator: Teaching in preschool or kindergarten settings, implementing curricula that support child development.
  2. Childcare Worker: Providing care and supervision for children in daycare centers, focusing on fostering a safe and stimulating environment.
  3. Family Support Specialist: Working with families to provide resources and guidance on child development and parenting.
  4. Child Development Associate (CDA): Supporting children’s learning and development in various educational settings, often requiring additional certification.
  5. Program Coordinator: Assisting in the design and implementation of educational programs in childcare settings.

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