Child Development

Division: Consumer/Family Studies

Child Development is the study of the physical, cognitive and emotional development of children from conception through adolescence.

Occupational possibilities in the field of child development are endless. Options include working as an infant/toddler care provider, preschool teacher, program director, home daycare provider, TK/elementary/secondary teacher, counselor, special education assistant and social worker.

The department offers a variety of courses for students looking to transfer to a four-year university in child development or a related field, earn a certificate (meets California Licensing Requirements), an associate degree, or simply upgrade knowledge and skills.

Resources

Child Development Brochure
Child Development Permit Matrix

Contact Information

Child Development Faculty Contact

Vanessa Bailey | (559) 730-3858 | vanessaba@cos.edu
Tule: 504C | Visalia Campus

Consumer and Family Studies Division Chair

Vanessa Bailey | (559) 730-3858 | vanessaba@cos.edu
Tule: 504C | Visalia Campus

Dean of Business, Social Science, and Consumer Family Studies

Jesse Wilcoxson, Ed.D. | (559) 737-6281 | jessew@cos.edu
Kern: 716 | Visalia Campus

Associate Degrees

Certificates

For a complete list of courses and descriptions visit: COURSES

CHLD 039 Child Development-DS 1 3 unit(s)

Hours: 3 Lecture/Discussion

This course is a study of the principles of both typical and atypical human development from conception through adolescence. The course content focuses on physical, cognitive, social, and emotional domains of development. There will be an emphasis on the interactions between nature and nurture. While studying developmental theory and investigative research methodologies, students will observe children, evaluate individual differences and analyze characteristics of development at various stages. This course qualifies for an AS Degree, COS Vocational Certificate, the California Development Permit and is transferable. This course is required to work in Title 22 child care facilities. (C-ID CDEV100)

CHLD 042 Child, Family & Society-DS2 3 unit(s)

Hours: 3 Lecture/Discussion

The study of the social development of children with an emphasis on the interactions among and between children, families, and community systems. The processes of socialization and identity development will be highlighted. This course qualifies for an AS degree, COS Vocational Certificate, the California Child Development Permit and is transferable. This course is mandatory to work in Title 22 child care facilities. (C-ID CDEV110)

CHLD 126 Observation and Assessment - DS3 3 unit(s)

Hours: 3 Lecture/Discussion

This course focuses on the appropriate use of assessment and observation strategies to document developmental skills, behavior, growth, play and learning in promoting children’s success. Recording strategies, rating systems, portfolios, and multiple assessment methods are explored. Child observations are conducted and analyzed during completion of 6 lab hours at an approved site. This core class qualifies for the COS Vocational Certificates, COS AS Degree, the California Child Development Permit and is transferable. (C-ID ECE200)

CHLD 134 Understanding Child Abuse 3 unit(s)

Hours: 3 Lecture/Discussion

This study of child abuse and neglect includes a historical overview, causes, detection, prevention, treatment, and effects. Profiles of victims and their perpetrators will be examined. Content includes responsibilities of a Mandated Reporter and other legal issues. Emphasis is on effects of abuse and behavioral impact of Child Abuse and Neglect within families, classrooms, child care facilities, and the community. Societal implications include community resources for prevention, detection, and treatment as well as the building of healthy family dynamics. This course meets 3 of the 6 units needed for the COS Child Development-Assistant Certificate.

CHLD 139 Curriculum and Education for Infants and Toddlers 3 unit(s)

Hours: 3 Lecture/Discussion

This course applies current theory and research to the care and education of infants and toddlers in group settings. Examines policies, principles, and practices that lead to quality care, including culturally appropriate frameworks. Teaches planning and implementation of developmentally appropriate curriculum for children birth to 36 months. This class also meets the requirement as an elective for specialization units required for Master Teacher Level on the Child Development Permit Matrix.

Prerequisites: CHLD 147 or equivalent college course with a minimum grade of C.

CHLD 140 Principles of Early Childhood Education - DS3 3 unit(s)

Hours: 3 Lecture/Discussion

An examination of the underlying theoretical principles of developmentally appropriate practice in early care and education. Emphasis on the role of the early childhood educator, the importance of teacher-child relationships, and effective teaching strategies and environmental design for supporting development in young children. This course includes a review of the historical roots of early childhood programs and the evolution of the professional practices promoting advocacy, ethics, and professional identity. This core class meets an educational requirement for employment in a Title 22 Licensed Child Development Facility, California Child Development Permits, COS Vocational Certificates, COS AS Degree and is transferable. (C-ID ECE120)

CHLD 141 Practicum In ECE-DS3 3 unit(s)

Hours: 2 Lecture/Discussion Hours:

4 Lab

In this course the student will practice and demonstrate developmentally appropriate early childhood program planning and teaching competencies under the supervision of ECE/CD faculty and other qualified early education professionals, by completing 54 hours of lab experience. Students will utilize practical classroom experiences to make connections between theory and practice, develop professional behaviors, and build a comprehensive understanding of children and families. Child centered, play-oriented approaches to teaching, learning, and assessment; and knowledge of curriculum content areas will be emphasized as student teachers design, implement and evaluate experiences that promote development and learning for all young children. This course qualifies for the COS Vocational Certificate, Child Development Permit, AS Degree, and the CSU transfer degree. (C-ID ECE210)

Advisory on Recommended Preparation: Verification of measles and pertussis vaccinations, freedom of tuberculosis, and verification of flu vaccination or flu vaccination waiver are required for placement in a lab site.

Prerequisites: CHLD 039, CHLD 042, CHLD 140, and CHLD 149 or equivalent college course with a minimum grade of C.

CHLD 143 Administration I: Programs in ECE-DS 6 3 unit(s)

Hours: 3 Lecture/Discussion

This course focuses on administering programs for children with emphasis on management of early childhood education programs, including program planning, organization, budgeting, personnel policies, record keeping, legal requirements and regulatory agencies. May be used to fulfill Title 22 Child Care Center Director requirements. CHLD 143 and CHLD 144 can also be used to fulfill Title 5 requirements (specialization units) for a California Site Supervisor Permit.

Prerequisites: CHLD 141 or equivalent college courses with a minimum grade of C.

CHLD 144 Administration II: Personnel and Leadership - DS6 3 unit(s)

Hours: 3 Lecture/Discussion

Students will learn effective strategies for personnel management and leadership in early care and education settings. This will include legal and ethical responsibilities, supervision techniques, professional development, and reflective practices for diverse and inclusive early care and education programs. May be used to fulfill Title 22 Child Care Center Director requirements. CHLD 143 and CHLD 144 fulfill specialization unit requirements for a California Site Supervisory Permit.

Prerequisites: CHLD 143 or equivalent college course with a minimum grade of C.

CHLD 146 Curriculum and Strategies for Children with Special Needs 3 unit(s)

Hours: 3 Lecture/Discussion

Covers curriculum and intervention strategies for working with children with special needs in partnership with their families. Focuses on the use of observation and assessment in meeting the individualized needs of children in inclusive and natural environments. Includes the role of the teacher as a professional working with families, collaboration with interdisciplinary teams, and cultural competence. It is required for the COS Special Education Certificate and it also fulfills part of the 6-units of specialization needed for a California Child Development Permit.

Advisory on Recommended Preparation: CHLD 039 or equivalent college course with a minimum grade of C.

Prerequisites: CHLD 154 or equivalent college course with a minimum grade of C.

CHLD 147 Infant/Toddler Child Care - DS4 3 unit(s)

Hours: 3 Lecture/Discussion

This course covers the study of the development and care of infants and toddlers, implementing PITC (Program for Infants, Toddlers and Caregivers) and philosophy of Western Education. Additionally, it examines the relationships between primary care giving, bonding and attachments with the development and socialization process. This class also meets the requirement as an elective for specialization units required for Master Teacher Level on the Child Development Permit Matrix.

CHLD 148 Child Health, Safety, Nutrition - DS7 3 unit(s)

Hours: 3 Lecture/Discussion

Introduction to the laws, regulations, standards, policies, procedures, and best practices related to health, safety, and nutrition in care and education settings for children birth through middle childhood. Includes the teacher's role in accident and illness prevention strategies, nutrition and meal planning, integrating health safety and nutrition experiences into daily routines, and overall risk management. The importance of collaboration with families and integration of culturally responsive practices into the classroom will also be emphasized throughout the course. (C-ID ECE220)

CHLD 149 Creative Curriculum/Children-DS3 3 unit(s)

Hours: 2 Lecture/Discussion Hours:

3 Lab

Developmentally appropriate curriculum and environments for children birth through age eight. Students will use knowledge of children’s development, theories of learning and development, and examples from various models of developmentally appropriate practice to plan environments and curriculum in all content areas to support children’s development and learning integrated throughout indoor and outdoor settings. This course qualifies for an AS Degree, COS Vocational Certificate, the California Child Development Permit and is transferable. (C-ID ECE130)

Prerequisites: CHLD 039 and CHLD 140 or equivalent college course with a minimum grade of C.

CHLD 152 School-Age Child Care-DS5 3 unit(s)

Hours: 3 Lecture/Discussion

This course examines the major physical, cognitive, and psychosocial developmental milestones of school-age children, including social and cultural dimensions. Emphasis on school-age child care programs and the developmental needs of children ages 6-12. Topics include: age appropriate environments, planning, curriculum, and guidance techniques.

CHLD 154 Introduction to Children with Special Needs 3 unit(s)

Hours: 3 Lecture/Discussion

This course includes a study of various types of disabilities and the characteristics of children who have special needs. The course will also cover family issues and current trends involving children with special needs, with an emphasis on interventions, inclusion, support services, and pertinent legislation. Introduces variations in the development of children with special needs, ages birth through eight, and the resulting impact on families. It is required for the COS special education certificate and it also fulfills part of the 6 units of specialization needed for a California Child Development Permit.

CHLD 158 Teaching in a Diverse Society 3 unit(s)

Hours: 3 Lecture/Discussion

This course will examine the development of social identities in diverse societies including theoretical and practical implications affecting young children, families, programs, teaching, education and schooling. Culturally relevant and linguistically appropriate anti-bias approaches supporting all children in becoming competent members of a diverse society. Course involves self-reflection of one's own understanding of educational principles in integrating anti-goals in order to better inform teaching practices and/or program development. This core class qualifies for employment in a Title 22 Licensed Child Development Facility, California Child Development Permits, COS vocational certificates, COS AS degree and is transferable. (C-ID ECE230)