WELCOME TO EARC 109

1. WELCOME TO EARC 109 INTRODUCTION TO EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION

2. EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION DEFINED • Write a definition of what Early Childhood Education means to you • After viewing the video “The Uniqueness of the Early Childhood Profession” work in a team and write a definition of Early Childhood Education

3. Assignment for Thursday • Go into blackboard and check the following: • reading assignments • homework assignments • Website assignments • Portfolio assignments

4. Early Childhood Education • Children ages 0 through 8 years of age in groups • Supports children’s development and learning • Assists children in developing attitudes of trust, competence and independence • Learn best through use of repetition and active involvement with their environment—concrete learning • Activities should be self-motivated and self-directed VS teacher-directed—”do it yourself” period of learning

5. Early Childhood Education • Supports development of multiple skills including: • Cognitive • Physical • Social • Emotional • Involved in play with a variety of materials emphasizing “process VS product”

6. Early Childhood Education • Provides both care and education • Partnerships with parents • Requires trained teachers who teach and assess young children, work with children and adults, think concretely and creatively