What is an Early Childhood Education Diploma?
In an early childhood education diploma program you will learn about the education needs specific to young children and how to go about fulfilling them. Learn about early childhood psychology and behavior and the specific teaching practices that cater to them. Also learn about how to communicate with children and their families to ensure that each child receives the attention he deserves.
Specific Skills You Will Learn
Throughout the course of a childhood education diploma program you will become an expert in the assessment of the educational needs of children. Learn observation techniques and theories and how to implement them into progress reports and personalized learning plans. You will also learn about children with special needs and how to meet them. Most diploma programs incorporate extensive classroom time with children as a way of getting hands-on experience.
Courses
In the typical early childhood education diploma program you will encounter the following courses:
- Psychology of Childhood
- Writing Skills
- Children with Special Needs
- Observation of Children
- Individual Program Planning
- Children and the Family
Why Get an Early Childhood Education Diploma?
Although the career of early childhood educator is a rewarding one and appeals to many, it takes extensive specific instruction in the field to become a practitioner. Teachers in all 50 states must be licensed if they are to work in public schools and many other schools as well.
What can I do with an Early Childhood Education Diploma?
Those who hold a diploma in early childhood education go on to find work in preschools, elementary schools, day care programs, as tutors, and in government educational services.
Job Outlook and Salary
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (www.bls.gov), the demand for early childhood educators will grow as fast or faster than the national average until the year 2014. Potential legislation mandating free pre-school education in some state may drive up demand for these positions. The median annual income of early childhood educators was around $21,000.
