Earn these career-relevant skills in weeks, not years.
- Identify theoretical models that have impacted perceptions and ideas about young children, education, and families.
- Compare how the roles of parents, community, and government have historically changed in early childhood education.
- Describe the impact of the historical evolution of perceptions and views of family involvement on early childhood education.
- Explain the term family.
- Identify current social issues that affect families today.
- Discuss strategies for working with children and families with diverse sociocultural backgrounds.
- Evaluate the impact of the evolution of family structures on early childhood education.
- Discuss characteristics of effective collaboration.
- Explore ways to foster collaboration and family involvement at various levels.
- Identify approaches to promote school–home connections.
- Devise a plan to communicate school-related activities and children’s progress.
- Explain ways to promote an equal partnership between parents, families, and schools with regard to decision making.
- Discuss levels of involvement and collaboration by adults in the community.
- Identify ways to grow partnerships in the community.
- Explore common elements in school partnerships.
- Analyze school activities and resources that build collaboration and community in the classroom.
- Examine historical events and legislation in education in regards to children with special needs.
- Investigate resources that help families of children with special needs, including disabilities and giftedness.
- Define individualized education plan (IEP), least restrictive environment (LRE), and inclusion.
- Create effective strategies to build relationships with families of children with special needs.