Nurturing Knowledge: Child Development @ SCC
Care for. Look after. Tend. Support. Cultivate.
What do these words and phrases have in common?
They're all synonyms for the word nurture. They also happen to be excellent job descriptions for what a childhood educator does on a daily basis. If caring for children is a calling you'd like to turn into a career, you've come to the right place.
The Santiago Canyon College Child Development program offers three fast-and-focused certificates designed for individuals interested in starting a career in child development, preschool and/or elementary education. Individuals who already have a degree can also use these courses to meet state certification requirements for “professional growth" and “continuing education."
The Infant/Toddler and Preschool Certificates of Proficiency provide a basic introduction into the social, emotional, physical, cognitive, and educational development of young children while meeting the minimum requirements for beginning early learning professionals employed or seeking employment as teachers and/or aides in publicly and privately funded programs serving infants and toddlers.
Similarly, the Certificate of Proficiency in the School-Age Child prepares students for positions teaching and supervising children from Pre-K to Grade 3, often in after-school, camp, cruise, and/or family day care settings. Completion of this certificate often leads to a School-Age Children's Center Permit.
As an added bonus, SCC's participation in the California Early Childhood Curriculum Alignment Project means that your courses are transfer-ready and consistent with statewide guidelines for preparation of early childhood educators.
If “nurture" is in your nature, SCC's Child Development program offers the flexible scheduling options, affordable tuition, and future-focused certifications you need to turn your love of children into a fulfilling career.
Early Childhood Education Apprenticeship Program (ECEAP)
This 18-month registered apprenticeship provides comprehensive support to preservice professionals, combining on-the-job learning and coursework at Santiago Canyon College. Successful completion of this program leads to the ability to obtain a CA Child Development Teacher Permit.
Mission Statement:
Empowering Tomorrow's Caregivers: Our mission is to provide a comprehensive and dynamic Child Development and Apprenticeship program that cultivates a nurturing and inclusive learning environment. Through cutting-edge curriculum, immersive hands-on experiences, and collaborative partnerships, we empower aspiring professionals with the knowledge, skills, and ethical values essential for excellence in early learning and child development. Our unwavering commitment is to emerge future high-quality professionals to ultimately support the education and well-being of every child and their family, ensuring a brighter future for all.
Vision Statement:
Shaping Futures, One Child at a Time: Our vision is to stand as a distinguished leader in child development and education, setting the benchmark for excellence in preparing compassionate and proficient professionals. We aspire to forge a vibrant community where diverse learners flourish, and our graduates are highly sought-after for their high-quality competence, unwavering dedication, and profound commitment to enriching the lives of children and families. By embracing research, fostering innovation, and exemplifying empathy, we strive to illuminate the path toward a more promising future for society's youngest members.