These courses typically discuss the history of the American system of education and the philosophies upon which it is based. Courses may include PRAXIS preparation--the exams required for teacher licensure and certification--and observation of a class in a local school. During classroom visits, students will note the role of the teacher.
Courses in family, child and community focus on teaching prospective educators how to partner with families and the community for the benefit of young children. Students learn to establish and maintain relationships with diverse family situations and community-based agencies dealing with early-childhood-age children.
Child development classes cover theories of child development and developmental milestones that contribute to the physical, social, emotional, cognitive and language development of the child. Prospective teachers learn to spot abnormal development and create lessons to enhance the child's learning experience and environment. This approach deals with the "whole child."
Prospective teachers will take courses to learn how to provide for the success of exceptional children by recognizing atypical development, making referrals and working with the family. These courses will also address the areas of child assessment, learning strategies and modifying the learning environment.
Classes in language development introduce prospective teachers to the concepts of oral and written language acquisition, along with other areas of communication. Topics covered in a typical language development course are selecting literature and films, integrating literacy into the classroom, assessment and inclusion strategies.
Courses in creative activities are typically laboratory classes that deal with practical suggestions for learning activities that involve the creativity of students. Prospective teachers learn to design and put into effect creative activities that are engaging to young learners.
Early childhood students sometimes need extra supervision to maintain their health and safety. Prospective teachers learn guidelines for their health and nutrition, and they learn to recognize childhood diseases. In accordance with governmental regulations, teachers must maintain the safety of the learning environment for the health of the children. They must also know how to identify and report abuse and neglect.
Guidance courses put forth strategies for guiding children by boosting their self-esteem and enhancing their communication skills. Prospective teachers will learn to recognize the cause of inappropriate behavior and devise interventions with the child and his family to achieve conflict resolution. Guidance courses enable the teacher to encourage self control and motivation in early childhood students.