ONLINE - Early Education Childcare Certificate (12 college credits)

Early Education Childcare Certificate

Interested in pursuing a career in childcare? Join us at Lasell University for our Early Education Childcare Certificate event! This is an online certificate (all from the comfort of your home -- all you need is internet connectivity and a laptop, tablet or phone. This is ideal for individuals seeking to launch their career in early childhood education. Learn from experienced professionals, network with like-minded individuals, and gain valuable insights into the field. Don't miss this opportunity to take the first step towards a rewarding career in childcare!

*** Students will be able to work with professors and academic advisors to support their learning and their journey while in college. All students will have access to all of Lasell University resources for students which are available on campus and online. Students will be assigned a university email account.

Course Description: This course examines the physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development of children from birth to age eight. Emphasis is placed on developmental theories, milestones, and the impact of family, culture, and environment on child development. Students will analyze developmental stages and apply their knowledge to support children’s growth in diverse early childhood settings.

Course Learning Outcomes: By the end of this course, students will be able to:

1. Describe major theories of child development and their application to early childhood education.
2. Identify key developmental milestones from infancy through early childhood.
3. Analyze the role of family, culture, and environment in influencing child development.
4. Apply observation and documentation techniques to assess children’s developmental progress.
5. Recommend developmentally appropriate practices that support the holistic growth of young children.

Course Description:This course introduces students to early childhood education principles and practices specific to either infant-toddler or preschool settings. Topics include responsive caregiving, play-based learning, health and safety, and the creation of inclusive environments. Students will explore curriculum planning and the educator’s role in nurturing early learning and development.

Course Learning Outcomes: By the end of this course, students will be able to:

1. Compare developmental needs and caregiving approaches for infants, toddlers, and preschool-aged children.
2. Design safe, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate learning environments.
3. Identify strategies for responsive teaching and promoting social-emotional development.
4. Evaluate curriculum models and teaching practices for early childhood programs.
5. Demonstrate understanding of the educator’s role in supporting diverse learners and families.

Course Description: This course focuses on designing, implementing, and evaluating early childhood curricula using developmentally appropriate practices and assessment tools. Students will learn to align curriculum with early learning standards, integrate play-based strategies, and use assessments to inform instruction and support individual child needs.

Course Learning Outcomes: By the end of this course, students will be able to:

1. Develop early childhood curriculum plans aligned with state and national standards.
2. Incorporate play and inquiry-based learning into curriculum design.
3. Select and apply appropriate assessment tools to monitor children’s learning and development.
4. Interpret assessment data to guide instructional decisions.
5. Reflect on the continuous improvement of curriculum and teaching practices.

Course Description: This course introduces students to the effective integration of technology in early childhood settings. It explores developmentally appropriate digital tools that support young children's learning and family engagement, with an emphasis on ethical and intentional use.

Course Learning Outcomes: By the end of this course, students will be able to:

1. Identify developmentally appropriate technology tools for early learners.
2. Evaluate the benefits and limitations of using technology in early childhood education.
3. Design technology-based activities that support learning and family communication.
4. Demonstrate ethical and inclusive practices in the use of digital tools.

Course Description: This course provides aspiring childcare providers with foundational knowledge to launch and operate a successful childcare business. Students will explore business planning, licensing requirements, budgeting, and strategies for marketing and enrollment.

Course Learning Outcomes: By the end of this course, students will be able to:

1. Outline key steps to start and manage a childcare business.
2. Identify licensing and regulatory requirements in early childhood care.
3. Develop a basic business plan and operational budget for a childcare program.
4. Create a marketing and outreach strategy for program enrollment.

Certificate Included:

Students will earn 12 undergraduate credits and receive an official college transcript with grades and GPA , which can be used to obtain state-issued early childhood education & care licenses to work in childcare programs and private childcare settings.

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