The Young Child in the Family and Community/El Niño Pequeño en la Familia y Comunidad

This online early childhood development course focuses on the social and cultural dynamics between the young child, the family and the community. Students develop communication skills between young children, peer groups, parents and teachers. They investigate community resources and social services, including health care, welfare and counseling. Students also explore culture, diversity and equity within the classroom and the larger community. Students examine their own and others’ understanding of social and cultural belonging. Instruction includes exploration of tools, classroom strategies, community resources, and advocacy for supporting family engagement and creating productive partnerships with children and families. Note that this is an intensive course, in which the work of a full academic quarter is offered in only 8 weeks. Students may be required to interview people, observe children or go into the community for this course, so plan ahead.