In this clinical course, students examine basic principles and components of life skills that children need as foundation for the development of positive social skills, e.g., attachment, affiliation, self-regulation, initiative, problem-solving, and respect. The student develops and implements a variety of activities and lesson plans to teach young children these critical life skills. Students develop strategies to be used with young children receiving early intervention services and/or to motivate young children in their preschool programs/classrooms by facilitating the development of positive peer relationships, addressing emotional needs, and minimizing disruptions resulting in increased learning. The student documents the use of individual activities and/or classroom strategies in a professional portfolio.

In this clinical course, students focus on STEM content, effective practice, instructional strategies, materials and curriculum integration, based on standards, inquiry, and connections to the real world. STEM concepts of curiosity, creativity, collaboration and critical thinking are researched and explored. Students will learn about the Scientific Method, as well as the roles of observation, classification, description, experimentation, application and imagination. Students will learn how to use technology and interactive media in the early childhood classroom to support learning. The role of engineering in the curriculum will be investigated, including design of methods and ideas for product development. Students will understand and apply math process standards of problem-solving, reasoning and proof, communication, connection, and representation. The course emphasizes application of principles in order to investigate and create experiences which employ STEM concepts and teaching strategies.

In this clinical course, students develop an understanding of language and literacy development from birth through grade three. Topics include the reciprocal connections between speaking and listening, rhythm and rhyme, communication activities, hearing and reading literature, stories, poetry, music, and written expression. Students engage in appropriate literacy interactions, activities, and assessments to meet the literacy needs of a diverse range of children. Students work with parents and care givers as partners in promoting literacy. The key components of reading (e.g. word recognition, fluency, phonological awareness, etc.) identified by the National Reading Panel for this age level are studied in depth. Students apply their knowledge of how young children develop their own reading skills using these key components of the reading process. Students then evaluate the effectiveness of their instruction.

In this clinical course, students examine, develop, and evaluate developmentally appropriate curriculum and instruction in early childhood special education settings, for young children birth through age 8 (grade 3). Students use district and state curriculum and integrate subjects with one another. Students develop skills to create and advocate for healthy, supportive, respectful, and challenging learning environments for all children.