Early Childhood Inclusive Practices - EDC-X794R

Course Description

Credit Validation for San Diego County Office of Education Only

Early childhood inclusion is examined through a variety of lenses including early start, natural environments, typical early learning settings and special education. Course content includes the characteristics of the most prevalent qualifying disabilities for children birth through five and the developmentally appropriate interventions and strategies for implementing instructional, behavioral and social-emotional strategies and supports. Early childhood providers will acquire knowledge regarding current, research-based practices for accommodations, adaptations, collaborating with various service providers, positive behavior supports and implementing inclusive strategies within early care and education environments where all children flourish together.

Learner Outcomes

• Describe Federal, State and local regulations that impact children birth through five with disabilities and their families
• Articulate an understanding of quality early learning environments and the California Department of Education resources available to support all children
• Identify the eligibility criteria for infants and toddlers (birth to 36 months) with a developmental delay or disability, or who are at risk for a developmental delay and the 14 categories of eligibility for special education in California
• Articulate the characteristics of children with the most common disability categories for children birth through five
• Build on the strengths of families and encourage their participation and involvement in early care and education settings
• Understand the importance of relationships in the lives of young children and how to develop culturally competent, collaborative partnerships with families, other professionals and organizations
• Understand how to collaborate across and within agencies to develop and monitor appropriate interventions and strategies
• Design inclusive early care and education settings where all children have a sense of belonging and the access and supports needed to fully participate with their peers
• Access and implement specific adaptation and modification strategies presented throughout this course to increase participation of all children in high-quality early learning settings
• Develop and maintain a structured and organized early care and education environment that supports accessibility for all children
• Identify evidence-based practices, strategies, models and technologies that support the development and learning of young children with a wide range of abilities and needs
• Develop an understanding of early learning and care systems, regulations and programs including licensing, family child care, state and federal, alternative payment programs, tuition-based programs, and special education
• Articulate one’s own professional philosophy of quality inclusive early care and education

Course Details

Number of Units: 2.0 - 3.0 graduate level extension credit(s) in semester hours, choose one option only

Who Should Attend: This course provides continuing education for family child care providers, general education teachers, special education teachers, related service providers, paraprofessionals, practitioners, coordinators and site and district administrators who support children of all abilities in early care and education settings.