Early Childhood Special Education Endorsement

This course discusses assessment methods and strategies used in early childhood settings. The course addresses the selection, administration, analysis, and interpretation of both formal and informal assessment tools. The role of assessment in eligibility, diagnosis, program planning, and curriculum-based assessments to support young children with disabilities will be outlined. 3 credits.

This course examines behavior guidance and classroom management techniques within early childhood environments with an emphasis on methods that support the social and emotional development of young children. Positive behavior supports for individual children with a variety of needs are discussed. 3 credits.

This course provides an overview of current and historical perspectives of early childhood special education as well as the study of specific disabilities commonly affecting young children. Regulations and legislation governing the special education process will be outlined, including service delivery options and the development of individualized education programs (IEPs) and individualized family service plans (IFSPs) for young children with disabilities. 3 credits.

This course provides an overview of communicating and collaborating with all members of a child’s instructional team and the varied influences that impact a child’s learning and development. Emphasis in the course is on theories and models of collaboration, coaching, and mentoring; working with colleagues and stakeholders as part of a team; involving families and related service providers. 3 credits.

This course examines effective assessment practices that include families, developmentally-appropriate instruction that involves families, and diverse family structures and how early childhood educators can center families in intervention practices. 3 credits.

This course focuses on pedagogical techniques for curriculum development and instructional planning, delivery, and programming for young children. The course will also address developmentally appropriate interventions for young learners in a variety of areas across multiple settings. 3 credits.

This course examines the development of language and literacy skills in typically developing young children as well as those with special needs. Instructional strategies for facilitating the development of early literacy skills in all children, including those from culturally, linguistically, and socio-economically diverse backgrounds, and those with language delays and disorders, will be explored. 3 credits.

This course provides an overview of the educational, physical, medical and health care needs of infants, toddlers, and young children with cognitive, physical, or sensory disabilities. Key topics include intervention, medical aspects, and management of neurodevelopmental and motor disabilities. 3 credits.

This course focuses on pedagogical techniques for curriculum and instructional planning when teaching and working with young children, focusing on literacy, social studies, mathematics and science instruction as well as integrating the arts (e.g. music, creative movement, dance, drama and visual arts) and technology. Differentiation for a variety of types of learners will be emphasized. 3 credits.