Courses listed in the Child Development category provide students with a basis of knowledge regarding curriculum and environment. These course satisfy Maryland core knowledge requirements by covering the following key topics:Strategies to facilitate learning and development, including the significance of play, emergent curriculum in learning, and continuity of careBest practices, including developmentally appropriate practices, that focus on the needs/interests of all children and youth and consider culturally-valued content and home experiencesLearning experiences that help all children and youth develop emerging intellectual curiosity, problem-solving and decision-making skills, and critical thinking Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) College and Career-Ready Standards for English Language Proficiency; Fine Arts; Health; History/Social Studies; Mathematics; Media; Physical Education; Reading/English Language Arts; Science; STEAM/STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, and Mathematics); Technology/Computer Skills; and World LanguagesIntegration of learning experiences with curriculum theories and current researchApproaches to learning and learning stylesSchedule management and transitionsPlanning and implementation of appropriate environments that facilitate development in all domains for all children and youthDesign of new environments or modification of existing ones that nurture and educate all children and youth and meet state regulatory requirementsAppropriate equipment and materials for both indoor and outdoor learning environmentsCultural responsiveness and inclusionary practices.
Literacy refers to the development of language and communication skills in young children. It encompasses various aspects of language learning, including listening, speaking, reading, and writing. This course highlights the importance of literacy and provides an overview of relevant Maryland Program Accreditation standards and indicators that educators should consider when creating and maintaining developmentally appropriate […]
Research tells us children learn best in environments where they can have secure relationships with caring and responsive adults, feel safe, and feel free to explore and learn. This course highlights the importance of the environment. It provides an overview of relevant Maryland Program Accreditation standards and indicators that educators should consider when creating and […]
Measurement is more than using a ruler. It involves critical mathematical concepts that can be supported in the preschool classroom through children’s everyday problem-solving. Participants will learn strategies for supporting as they develop an understanding of measurement.
Emotionally Responsive Teaching is a pedagogical approach that recognizes the pivotal role of emotions in the learning process. Participants will define Emotionally Responsive Teaching and learn its seven foundational principles.
Open-Ended Art in Early Childhood Education. Open-ended art is an activity where children are free to use their imagination to explore various materials without specific instructions or teacher-imposed expectations for a final product. Participants will explore strategies for greater inclusion of open-end art in the early childhood settings. This is a competent level training. Pre-requisites: Experience facilitating art curriculum […]
Supporting Boys in The Early Childhood Classroom: The needs of boys and girls differ widely. Early Childhood professionals must consider these differences in their planning and teaching. This course provides some practical strategies for creating a responsive early childhood environment for boys.
“Technology is a tool. When used correctly, technology can support and advance children’s learning. Participants should take this workshop to learn strategies for integrating technology into the early childhood program in developmentally appropriate ways. Prerequisite Knowledge Required: An understanding of the importance of using a variety of developmentally appropriate activities that support a child’s […]
Social studies forms the foundation for “civic competence.” This course will help participants learn how to implement a developmentally appropriate social studies curriculum. This is a competent level training. Prerequisites Required–Experience teaching preschool-aged children.
Environmental print is the print of everyday life. Participants will learn about environmental print and MSDE program accreditation standards related to environmental print.
Traditional sitting positions during circle time, such as “criss-cross applesauce,” may not be suitable for all children due to developmental challenges and the potential negative impact on attention, engagement, and emotional well-being. In this workshop, we will explore alternative strategies that allow for a variety of sitting positions and incorporate active motor play to enhance children’s learning experience.
