Program Goals

Throughout enrollment in the Early Education and Care Program, Falmouth High School students will

• develop a comprehensive understanding of child development
• understand differences between physical, cognitive, social, and emotional growth
• understand how theorists and researchers contribute to field
• provide direct instruction to early education students ages 3 to 5
• develop and implement dramatic play areas, learning centers, science experiments, and art ideas
• promote self-reflection and self-direction
• strengthen students’ communication skills

9608   Child Development CP1                                   Year                       Grades 10-12       4 Credits

Throughout this course, students develop a complete understanding of child development as they learn about physical, cognitive, social, and emotional growth. Students also learn about different theorists and gain a working knowledge of their contributions to our collective understanding of child development. Students have opportunities to exhibit their knowledge and understanding of child development, produce journal entries outlining their own development, apply knowledge to practical child rearing and child observation, produce materials applicable to different age groups, understand the important role parents, teachers, and peers impact on a child’s development and self-esteem. Students also have the opportunity to study specific areas of individual interest and produce written and oral presentations to showcase their findings. Students are regularly assessed in accordance with the FHS Skills Rubric for Information Seekers and Organizers.

9605   Child Care Aide CP1                                          Year                       Grades 11, 12      8 Credits

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Child Development and teacher recommendation.  Child Development principles are applied in a student-run nursery school. Along with teaching in the preschool, students have the opportunity to put their creative talents to work developing and implementing dramatic play areas, learning centers, science experiments, and art ideas. Class time also includes analytical observation of preschool-aged children and the study of early childhood theory and philosophy. A necessary requirement for this course is an enthusiastic involvement and a sincere interest in working with children. Using the FHS Rubrics for Problem Solvers and Presenters, students develop professional teaching skills and carry out teaching responsibilities in the FHS Preschool and community volunteer internships.

9606   Child Care Internship CP1                               Year                       Grade 12              8 Credits

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Child Care Aide experience.  The internship offers an advanced second year experience in pre-school education. Students gain increased practice with methods and materials for teaching. Major projects and volunteering in community projects are required as well as outside reading and an observation journal. Using the FHS Rubrics for Readers, Writers, and Problem Solvers, students develop refined communication skills and apply these skills to real-life issues related to developing healthy relationships.