CDA 173 - Ages and Stages of Young Children: The Preschool Years

1 Credits, 1 Contact Hours
1 lecture period 0 lab periods

Examination of the developmental stages of preschool children ages 3 to 5 years. Includes general principles and theories of development, physical characteristics, pattern of motor skill development, cognitive development, socio-emotional development, developmental concerns and challenges and family involvement.

Information: All CDA courses require college-level reading and writing.

Course Learning Outcomes

Identify and apply contributions of developmental theorists and their impact on the field of early childhood education (NAEYC 1a, 1b).
Compare relative roles of: genetics, health, environment, demography, familial influences and cultural determinants (NAEYC 1a, 1b, 1c, 2a, 2b, 6a).
Explain national issues that influence child development (NAEYC 1b, 1c, 6a, 6e).
Identify, analyze, and discuss factors in social, emotional, physical, cognitive, language and brain development from age 3 to 5 years (NAEYC 1a, 1b, 1c).
Identify the key issues of family involvement in the preschool years (NAEYC 1a, 1b, 1c, 2b, 2c).

Outline:

Early Childhood Developmental Theories/Theorists
1. Identification of theories/theorists
2. How theory aligns with developmentally appropriate practice
Influences on Growth and Development
1. Nature and Nurture
2. Health
3. Environment
4. Demographics
5. Familial
6. Cultural
National Issues
1. Media exposure
2. Violence
3. Abuse
Preschool Developmental Milestones
1. Physical
2. Cognitive
3. Social
4. Emotional
Issues in Preschool Care
1. Attention, spoiling and discipline
2. Nutrition
3. Thumb sucking and comfort devices
4. Children with special needs
5. Developmentally appropriate toys and equipment
6. Family needs/involvement