Technical Competency Area in CARE AND DEVELOPMENT OF YOUNG CHILDREN

Click here for the full curriculum.
Click here for the program brochure.

Program Description
The Technical Competency Area (TCA) in Care & Development of Young Children is designed to meet the classroom training hours required for a “Child Development Associate” (CDA) credential. This nationally recognized, industry based credential is built into the “Classroom Track for Louisiana Pathways Child Care Career Development System” and is designed to prepare individuals for entry level positions in a variety of child care settings.

Students will receive coursework focused on The CDA Competency Standards as established by the Council for Professional Recognition. These national standards are used to evaluate a caregiver's performance with children and families during the CDA assessment process. All courses are designed to prepare students to provide children with the highest quality of care by fully understanding and participating in the Louisiana Quality Rating System (QRS) and by striving to demonstrate best practices as recommended by the National Association for the Education of Young Children. (NAEYC)  This program is not designed for students planning to earn a baccalaureate degree in education.

Objectives

• To provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to work effectively as early childhood professionals in a variety of settings.
• To provide students with coursework focused on The CDA Competency Standards as established by the Council for Professional Recognition.

Expected Learning Outcomes
Students completing the Technical Competency Area in Care and Development of Young Children will

• Have an understanding of professional and ethical issues in the field of early childhood
• Have knowledge of standards for quality care such as NAEYC Developmentally Appropriate Practices and Quality Start Child Care Rating System for Louisiana
• Apply theories related to cognitive, social/emotional, physical, creative, and behavioral early childhood development
• Know and apply best practices for caring and educating young children in early childhood environments
• Provide care and a stimulating environment for children of differing learning styles, cultural backgrounds and exceptionalities
• Have an awareness of state health and safety regulations in child care environments

Specific Degree Requirements
Students wishing to earn a Technical Competency Area in Care & Development of Young Children from South Louisiana Community College must:

• Earn a grade of “C” or higher in each course (9 hours)