In introductory early childhood education courses, students learn the importance of early education in children ages birth to five years old. Common topics include child development, historical perspectives of early childhood education and contemporary development and trends in the field. Some courses break content up into separate sections, such as historical background of specific professionals, including Montessori and Froebel. Modern preschool facilities include day care, Head Start and home day care, as well as evaluation of current techniques, material and content. Many courses require students to complete observation exercises at approved childcare facilities.
Child development courses research the development of human beings from conception to adolescence. Many courses place emphasis on development in preschool-aged children. Students learn the various courses of development and the stages of life according to well-known theorists, including Freud, Piaget and Erickson. Observation of children in preschool environments or related settings is a common requirement of child development courses.
Courses on infant and toddler growth and development are generally intended for individuals currently providing care to infants and toddlers in child care settings or those who intend to pursue positions working with very young children. The courses enable students to gain an understanding of the physical, cognitive, social and emotional development of infants and toddlers. Students learn developmentally appropriate childcare methods, nutrition, space management techniques, first aid, safety and routines. Many courses require observation of care of infants and toddlers.
CDA credential preparation courses focus on the specific areas. Individuals must demonstrate competence to achieve the CDA designation. Students study and review the competencies and functional areas of the credential and how they relate to early childhood education. The courses help students create professional resource files and complete the requirements to achieve the CDA. CDA credential preparation courses generally require students to complete early childhood education courses before enrollment.
Some Child Development Associate programs require students to select an elective course in the program. An example of an elective course from Asnuntuck Community College in Enfield, Connecticut, is Creative Experiences/Children. The course focuses on creative expression in early childhood and enables students to examine various sources of creative media that is appropriate to use with young children. Other elective courses include early language development and child, family and school relationships.