This course focuses on promoting the optimal development of young children with special needs in an inclusionary early childhood setting. Building on a foundation of child development and the components of high-quality early childhood programs, students investigate specific physical, emotional, and psychological conditions which delay or modify the course of a child's healthy development. Students observe children with special needs in order to design adaptations in the curriculum and environment. Students develop strategies for collaborating with families and community services providers, based on a knowledge of legislative mandates regarding special education.

This course addresses how to optimize children's learning through play and daily routines. Using theories of child development, participants analyze how the physical arrangement of the classroom and outdoor area can maximize development. Students plan an environment that meets safety and health needs, that allows for child directed choices and activities, and supports the child's physical, cognitive, language, social, and creative growth. Students apply practices to environments that are both developmentally and culturally inclusive.

The current field of special education was established by law and further refined through the courts in litigation. In this writing intensive class, students trace the historical development of federal, state, and local laws and regulations such as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and the New Hampshire Standards for the Education of Students with Disabilities. Students will gain an understanding of the relationship between constitutional law, statutory law, regulatory law, and case law as it relates to current special education law. The focus on policies and procedures provides the background future teachers and paraprofessionals need to fulfill their legal and ethical responsibilities and to understand the ever changing, complex nature of special education law.

This course is designed to provide early childhood educators with the ability to use a variety of assessment methods to determine the developmental levels and needs of young children. Students are introduced to the meaning and uses of authentic assessment as well as various tools and assessment strategies. The course addresses the interpretation of observational and assessment data to monitor children's progress, guide instructional practice, and identify and refer at-risk children. Prior completion of EDC 602 Learning and Early Childhood Environments is recommended.