Philosophy
The Early Childhood Development program serves the training needs of child care providers who wish to meet the educational requirements set by the Early Childhood Commission.

Outcomes
Program graduates will possess the knowledge and skills needed to:

1. Maintain a proper learning environment for young children.
2. Understand stages of physical, cognitive, and socio-emotional development in young children.
3. Relate well to members of each child’s family.
4. Function on the job in ways that contribute to effective program operation.

The CDA National Credentialing Program is a major effort to enhance the quality of child-care by defining, evaluating, and recognizing the competence of child-care providers. Satisfactory completion of the Certificate of Proficiency program qualifies a graduate to write the Child Development Associate examination, which is administered by the Council for Early Childhood Professional Recognition.

Students in this program must complete their required practicum experiences at a licensed child care facility located in the Ozarka College service area.

First semseter courses are online with 3 required meetings with the instructor throughout the semester. General education courses are completed during the second semester. The program is completed within two academic semesters, and serves as a bridge into the Associate of Arts in Teaching Degree. 

Applicants are admitted to this program only after meeting specific health and background criteria. Information is available from the Early Childhood Education Program Coordinator.