Early Care and Education
35 courses · Las Positas College · 2026-2027 Catalog
Classes: Summer 2026 · Fall 2026
ECE 10 Introduction to Education
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 36 hours lecture,, 54 hours laboratory
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- EDUC 200
This course introduces students to the concepts and issues related to teaching diverse learners in today's contemporary schools, TK through the 12th grade. Topics include teaching as a profession and career, historical and philosophical foundations of the American education system, inequities in the field, actions to address inequities, contemporary education issues, California's content standards and frameworks, and teacher performance standards. In addition to class time, the course requires a minimum of 54 hours of structured fieldwork in public school elementary classrooms that represent California’s diverse student population, and includes cooperation with at least one carefully selected and campus-approved certificated classroom teacher.
ECE 29 Independent Study, Early Care and Education
- Units
- 0.5-2
- Hours
- 108 hours laboratory
- Transfers to
- CSU
Supervised study in the area of Early Care and Education. Any student interested in registering for an Independent Studies course should contact a full/part-time instructor or dean in the appropriate area.
ECE 40 Social and Emotional Foundations for Early Learning
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 hours lecture
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course will focus on the healthy social and emotional development of young children ages 0-8, as the foundation for early learning. Students will identify the role of the teacher in establishing learning environments that promote the healthy social and emotional development of young children, the underlying basis for quality teacher-child interactions.
ECE 42 Early Childhood Math and Science
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 hours lecture
- Prerequisite
- ECE 63
- Transfers to
- CSU
An examination of the constructivist approach to teaching science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) to young children; emphasizing application to everyday experiences of children.
ECE 50 Early Childhood Principles and Practices
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 hours lecture
- Transfers to
- CSU
- C-ID
- ECE 120
Historical contexts and theoretical perspectives of developmentally appropriate practice in early care and education for children birth through age eight. Explores the typical roles and expectations of early childhood educators. Identifies professional ethics, career pathways, and professional standards. Introduces best practices for developmentally appropriate learning environments, curriculum, and effective pedagogy for young children, including how play contributes to children's learning, growth, and development.
ECE 54 Child Health, Safety and Nutrition
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 hours lecture
- Transfers to
- CSU
- C-ID
- ECE 220
This course covers aspects of nutrition, health, and safety that promote and maintain the health and well-being of all children and adults who work with young children. Topics include health and nutritional guidelines; maintaining safe and healthy learning environments; state regulations, policies, and procedures; common childhood illnesses and infectious diseases; school-family collaboration; and emergency preparedness, first aid, and injury prevention.
ECE 56 Child Growth and Development
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 hours lecture
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- CDEV 100
Examines the progression of development in the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional domains and identifies developmental milestones for children from conception through adolescence. Emphasis on interactions between biological processes and environmental factors. Students will observe children, evaluate individual differences, and analyze characteristics of development at various stages according to developmental theories.
ECE 60 Introduction to the Young Child with Exceptional Needs
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 hours lecture
- Prerequisite
- ECE 56
- Transfers to
- CSU
Introduces the variations in development of infants and children with exceptional needs and the resulting impact on families. Includes an overview of historical and societal influences, laws relating to children with exceptional needs and the identification and referral process. Assessments, interventions and learning environments for infants and children with exceptional needs.
ECE 61 Literature for the Young Child
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 hours lecture
An introduction to young children’s literature, the development of speech and language and the exploration of teaching techniques which promote language, literacy and literature for the young child. Selection, evaluation and use of fiction, non-fiction, prose and poetry from existing written and/or recorded children's literature in the early childhood classroom. Approaches to reading books, storytelling, story writing, and use of puppets, flannel boards and props to facilitate children’s language and appreciation of literature.
ECE 62 Child, Family and Community
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 hours lecture
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- CDEV 110
The processes of socialization and identity development, focusing on the interrelationship of family, school, and community. Examines the influence of multiple societal contexts. Explores the role of collaboration between family, community, and schools in supporting children’s development.
ECE 63 Early Childhood Curriculum
- Units
- 4
- Hours
- 54 hours lecture,, 54 hours laboratory
- Prerequisite
- ECE 50; ECE 56
- Transfers to
- CSU
- C-ID
- ECE 130
This course offers students the opportunity for professional application of the principles of child growth and development in the study of play based, inclusive, emergent curriculum within the physical environment of the infant, toddler and preschool classrooms. 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. The learning experiences will include program content pertaining to the use of materials, the facilitation and guidance of all children’s experiences based on what is culturally and developmentally appropriate for children.
ECE 64 Play: Materials and Environments
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 hours lecture
- Prerequisite
- ECE 56; ECE 50
- Transfers to
- CSU
Application of principles of human growth and development in the consideration of play materials and environments for children birth through early elementary. The selection and development of play materials and environments that are developmentally, culturally, and age-appropriate.
ECE 65 Administration I: Programs in Early Childhood Education
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 hours lecture
- Prerequisite
- ECE 62; ECE 63
- Transfers to
- CSU
Introduction to the administration of early childhood programs. Covers program types, budget, management, regulations, laws, development and implementation of policies and procedures. Examines administrative tools, philosophies, and techniques needed to organize, open, and operate an early care and education program: Relationships with families, and community.
ECE 67 Infant and Toddler Development and Caregiving
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 hours lecture
- Prerequisite
- ECE 56
- Transfers to
- CSU
A study of infants and toddlers from preconception to 36 months including physical, cognitive, language, social and emotional growth and development. Applies theoretical frameworks to interpret behavior and interactions between heredity and environment. Examination of best practices, responsive caregiving techniques, environments, infant/toddler learning foundations, health, safety, and licensing requirements.
ECE 68 Administration II: Personnel and Leadership in Early Childhood Education
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 hours lecture
- Prerequisite
- ECE 62; ECE 63
- Transfers to
- CSU
Effective strategies for personnel management and leadership in early care and education settings. Includes legal and ethical responsibilities, supervision techniques, professional development, and reflective practices for a diverse and inclusive early care and education program.
ECE 69 Child Study: Observation and Assessment
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 hours lecture
- Prerequisite
- ECE 56
- Transfers to
- CSU
- C-ID
- ECE 200
Introduces the appropriate use of assessment and observation tools and strategies to document young children’s development and learning. The use of findings to inform and plan learning environments and experiences are emphasized. Recording strategies, rating systems, portfolios, and multiple assessment tools will be discussed, along with strategies for collaboration with families and professionals.
ECE 74 Child Guidance
- Units
- 2
- Hours
- 36 hours lecture
- Transfers to
- CSU
Appropriate for classroom teachers in various settings including Transitional Kindergarten, students will identify developmentally appropriate behaviors, challenging behaviors, and the various influences that affect children’s behavior. Students will analyze children’s behaviors and select strategies to make positive changes. Emphasizes the connection between children’s social and emotional development and their success in the classroom, and how the teachers’ perceptions, experiences, and behavior influence child behaviors. Upon completion of the course, students should be able to demonstrate strategies that encourage positive social interactions, promote conflict resolution, and develop self-control, self-motivation, and self-esteem in children.
ECE 78 Multilingual Language Development
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 hours lecture
- Prerequisite
- ECE 56
- Transfers to
- CSU
Review of language acquisition theories and emergent literacy in both monolingual and multilingual language learners. Includes oral and written language development, developmental stages of receptive and expressive language, print awareness, phonemic awareness and early reading and writing development. Identification of culturally and linguistically responsive language support practices. Examination of family patterns, cultural values, and environmental circumstances that affect language development and communication styles. Includes assessment and early identification of linguistic delays.
ECE 79 Teaching in a Diverse Society
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 hours lecture
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- ECE 230
Examines the historical and current perspectives on diversity, equity, inclusion, and the impact of systemic societal influences on children’s development, their learning, and school experiences. Strategies for developmentally, culturally, and linguistically appropriate anti-bias curriculum will be explored as well as approaches to promote inclusive and anti-racist classroom communities. Self-examination and reflection on one’s values, beliefs, and attitudes about social identities, stereotypes, conscious and unconscious bias will be emphasized. The class will focus heavily on anti-bias approaches to teaching, curriculum and family partnerships.
ECE 80A CA Preschool Foundations: Health
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 18 hours lecture
Introduction to the health domain of the California Preschool/Transitional Kindergarten Learning Foundations and Frameworks including strands of health habits, safety, and nutrition. Provides practical strategies for implementing the curriculum frameworks. Applicable to required or professional development units for Child Development Permit holders and pre-school, transitional kindergarten, and early-primary teachers.
ECE 80B CA Preschool Foundations: Social and Emotional
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 18 hours lecture
Introduction to the social and emotional development domain of the California Preschool Learning Foundations and Frameworks including the strands of self, social interaction, and relationships. Provides practical strategies for implementing the curriculum frameworks developed for this domain. Applicable to required or professional development units for Child Development Permit holders, pre-school, transitional kindergarten, and early-primary teachers.
ECE 80C CA Preschool Foundations: Language and Literacy
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 18 hours lecture
Introduction to the language and literacy development domain in the California Preschool Learning Foundations and Frameworks including the strands of listening and speaking, reading, and writing. Provides practical considerations for implementing the curriculum frameworks developed for this domain. Applicable to required or professional development units for Child Development Permit holders, pre-school, transitional kindergarten, and early-primary teachers.
ECE 80D CA Preschool Foundations: English Language Development
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 18 hours lecture
Introduction to the English language learners domain of the California Preschool Learning Foundations and Frameworks including strands of listening, speaking, reading and writing. Provides practical strategies for implementing the curriculum frameworks developed for this domain. Applicable to required or professional development units for Child Development Permit holders, pre-school, transitional kindergarten, and early-primary teachers.
ECE 80E CA Preschool Foundations: History/Social Science
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 18 hours lecture
Introduction to the history and social science domain of the California Preschool Learning Foundations and Frameworks including strands of self and society, civics, history, geography, ecology, and economics. Provides practical strategies for implementing the curriculum frameworks developed for this domain. Applicable to required or professional development units for Child Development Permit holders, pre- school, transitional kindergarten, and early-primary teachers.
ECE 80F CA Preschool Foundations: Math
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 18 hours lecture
Introduction to the mathematics domain of the California Preschool Learning Foundations and Frameworks including the strands of number sense, algebra and functions, measurement, geometry, and mathematical reasoning. Provides strategies for implementing the curriculum frameworks developed for this domain. Applicable to required or professional development units for Child Development Permit holders, pre-school, transitional kindergarten, and early primary teachers.
ECE 80G CA Preschool Foundations: Science
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 18 hours lecture
Introduces the science domain of the California Preschool Learning Foundations and Frameworks including the strands of scientific inquiry, physical, life, and earth sciences and provides practical strategies for implementing the curriculum frameworks developed for this domain. Applicable to required or professional development units for Child Development Permit holders, pre-school, transitional kindergarten, and early-primary teachers.
ECE 80H CA Preschool Foundations: Visual Arts
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 18 hours lecture
Introduction to the visual arts domain of the California Preschool Learning Foundations and Frameworks including artistic expression and response, and skills using various art mediums. Provides practical strategies for implementing the curriculum frameworks developed for this domain. Applicable to required or professional development units for Child Development Permit holders, preschool, transitional kindergarten, and early-primary teachers.
ECE 80I CA Preschool Foundations: Physical Development
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 18 hours lecture
Introduction to the physical development domain of the California Preschool Learning Foundations and Frameworks including strands of fundamental movement skills, perceptual-motor skills and movement concepts, and active physical play. Provides practical strategies for implementing the curriculum frameworks developed for this domain. Applicable to required or Child Development Permit holders, pre-school, transitional kindergarten, and early-primary teachers.
ECE 80J CA Preschool Foundations: Performing Arts
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 18 hours lecture
Introduction to the performing arts domain of the California Preschool Learning Foundations and Frameworks including strands of music, drama, and dance. Provides practical strategies for implementing the curriculum frameworks developed for this domain. Applicable to required or professional development units for Child Development Permit holders, pre-school, transitional kindergarten, and early-primary teachers.
ECE 83 Adult Mentoring and Supervision
- Units
- 2
- Hours
- 36 hours lecture
- Prerequisite
- ECE 62 and ECE 63
- Transfers to
- CSU
Methods and principles of mentoring and supervising adults in early care and education settings. Emphasis on the role of experienced classroom teachers who function as mentors and leaders to new teachers and other adults while simultaneously addressing the needs of children, families and other staff. Also, a focus on self-reflection and "soft skills set obtainment" emphasized.
ECE 87 Quality Environments for Infants and Toddlers
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 hours lecture
- Transfers to
- CSU
A study of research-based approaches related to the care and education of infants and toddlers in group settings. Examines theories of learning and development, regulations, and essential practices that lead to quality care and developmentally appropriate curriculum and environments for children birth to 36 months. Emphasizes strategies to promote healthy relationships in the care and education of infants and toddlers.
ECE 90 Practicum-Supervised Experience
- Units
- 4
- Hours
- 36 hours lecture,, 108 hours laboratory
- Prerequisite
- ECE 50; ECE 56; ECE 62; ECE 63
- Transfers to
- CSU
- C-ID
- ECE 210
Practicum experience working with young children under the supervision of an ECE/CD faculty and other qualified early education professionals; Students will utilize practical classroom experiences to make connections between theory and practice, develop professional behaviors, and build comprehensive understanding of children and families. Reflective practice will be emphasized as student teachers utilize 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 positive development and learning for all young children. Content Career ladder, professional development.
ECE 91 Adaptive Curriculum For Children With Exceptional Needs
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 36 hours lecture,, 54 hours laboratory
- Prerequisite
- ECE 60 and ECE 90
- Transfers to
- CSU
Provides direct experience working with young children in special day classes or inclusive settings. Application of intervention strategies using best practices of early childhood development and special education in adapting curriculum to meet the individual needs of children. Observation of the assessment process by the special education team and assisting in the implementation of the educational plan. Includes the role of the teacher as a professional working in partnership with families, collaboration with interdisciplinary teams and cultural competence. Lab hours required in an inclusive setting.
ECE 95 Work Experience
- Units
- 1-3
- Corequisite
- ECE 96
- Transfers to
- CSU
Cooperative effort between, student, supervisor and instructor to accomplish professional work objectives and broaden experiences. On-the-job work experience to build early childhood competencies.
ECE 96 Work Experience Seminar
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 18 hours lecture
- Corequisite
- ECE 95
- Transfers to
- CSU
Discussion and analysis of typical problems often encountered by employees at the workplace. Application of National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) Code of Ethical Conduct to difficult situations that occur at the job site. Develop and complete measurable developmentally appropriate goals in early care and education settings.