Early Childhood EducationContact: Linda Taylor, ltaylor105@ivytech.edu (574)289-7001 ext. 5351
The Early Childhood Education Program focuses on early childhood growth and development with an emphasis on developing the skills and techniques to provide appropriate learning environments, care and education for young children. The program provides instruction in the physical, emotional, social and cognitive areas of early childhood, including adult-child relationships. Observations and participation in early childhood settings further develop student competencies. The training is appropriate for candidates seeking the Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, public school paraprofessionals meeting federally mandated credentialing requirements, and individuals planning to go on to a four-year degree program.
Degrees, certificates and specialties
Degrees certificates and specialties
Early Childhood Education/Associate of ScienceTransfers to USI
South Bend Curriculum 07-08
Early Childhood Education/Associate of ScienceTransfers to IUPUI
South Bend Curriculum 07-08
Early Childhood Education/Associate of Applied ScienceSouth Bend Curriculum 07-08
Early Childhood Education/Associate of Applied ScienceDistance Education South Bend Curriculum 07-08Early Childhood Education/Technical Certificate South Bend Curriculum 07-08Elkhart Curriculum 07-08Early Childhood Education/Career Development AssociateSpecialty Core - Credits 12ECE 101 Beginnings in Child Development
ECE 102 Reflections on Practice in Early Childhood
ECE 103 Curriculum for the Early Childhood
Classroom 3 ECE 105 CDA Process
Total credits 12
Depending on your choice of CDA Credential (Center-based,
Infant/Toddler, Home Day Care or Home Visitor), choosing one
of these additional courses will strengthen your preparation:
ECE 120 Child Growth and Development
ECE 204 Families in Transition
ECE 213 Infant/Toddler
ECE 240 In Home Care
All classes are 3 credits unless indicated.
Program description The Early Childhood Education Program focuses on early childhood growth and development. Emphasis is placed on developing skills and techniques for providing appropriate environments and care for young children. Students learn about the physical, emotional, social and cognitive areas of early childhood and develop competencies through classroom instruction, observation and participation in early childhood settings. Specialties include Administration, Curriculum, Infant/Toddler and Generalist. An internship or co-op experience is included.
Program optionsAn Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree is offered. Students also may work toward the Child Development Associate (CDA) designation, a national, competency-based credential preferred by many industry employers for entry-level positions. CDA credits transfer into the AAS program; students already holding the CDA credit may enroll in the AAS program with advanced standing. Courses in the AAS program transfer to four-year degree programs at IU South Bend and elsewhere.
Typical careers• Day care provider
• Intergenerational care
• Nanny care
• Nursery school employee
• Playroom attendant
• School aide
Typical duties• Organize and participate in recreational activities such as games.
• Monitor children's play and interaction to maintain their safety.
• Read to children.
• Teach children simple painting, drawing, handwork and songs.
• Teach and help children with health and personal habits.
• Meet with parents to discuss the child's progress and needs.
• Keep records of each child's progress.
• Watch for children who show signs of
emotional or developmental problems. Discuss with supervisor and parents.
Employment outlookThrough 2008, national employment in early childhood education is estimated to increase 26 percent. Indiana’s estimated growth rate is 42 percent, which makes this field one of the 10 fastest growing occupations in the state.
Occupational areas• Day cares
• Nursery and preschools
• Other youth institutions
EarningsNational: Average wage $7.86 to $8.39 an hour
Indiana: Average wage $7.89 to $9.66 an hour
South Bend: Average wage $9.07 an hour
Area employers of program graduates• Children's Discovery Centers
• El Campito
• Head Start
• Mi Escuileta
• Noah’s Ark
• Starz Academy
• Walnut Hill Early Childhood Center (Goshen)
• Self-employment
Sources: CHOICES; Indiana Career & Postsecondary Advancement Center (ICPAC); surveys of program graduate
