Child Development
East Los Angeles College (ELAC) offers a variety of Child Development courses to help you launch a career working with children. Whether you want to be a preschool teacher, an assistant teacher, or simply gain child development knowledge, ELAC has options for you. They offer certificates and Associate's degrees that fulfill California State Permit requirements, along with courses focused on specific areas like children with special needs or STEAM education. With online options available, ELAC's Child Development program can help you achieve your goals in the field of early childhood education.
UC:CSU IGETC Area 4I (C-ID CDEV 100)
LECTURE, 3 HOURS.
This is an introductory child development course that
examines the major physical, psychosocial, and cognitive/
language developmental milestones for children,
both typical and atypical, from conception through adolescence.
There is an emphasis on interactions between
maturational processes and environmental factors.
While studying developmental theory and investigative
research methodologies, students observe children, evaluate
individual differences, and analyze characteristics of
growth and development at various stages.
CSU (C-ID ECE 120)
LECTURE, 3 HOURS.
This course provides an examination of the underlying
theoretical and philosophical principles of developmentally
appropriate practices applied to programs, environments,
emphasizing the key role of relationships, constructive
adult-child interactions, and teaching strategies
in supporting physical, social, creative and intellectual
development for all young children. This course includes a
review of the historical roots of early childhood programs
and the evolution of the professional practices promoting
advocacy, ethics, and professional identity (preparation
standards).
CSU
LECTURE, 3 HOURS.
This course explores creative experiences for young children.
Class instruction prepares students in designing and implementing developmentally-appropriate teaching
strategies, use of materials and media in the areas of
visual arts, music, dramatic play, rhythm and movement,
and literacy experiences. The importance of culture, tradition,
and home language is supported throughout the
curriculum. Emphasis is on ways to make decisions and
create and maintain a classroom atmosphere that allows
creative expression and encourages and supports the
interests and talents of children.
CSU
LECTURE, 3 HOURS.
Values the explorations of early math, science, and social
science creative learning experiences designed to support
young learners’ (children ages 0-8) construction
of knowledge of the concepts and skills essential to the
basic understanding of mathematics, science, and the
social sciences in early education programs. Encompasses
planning early math, science, and social science
creative experiences that are developmentally appropriate
and culturally relevant in an organized and sequential
approach, referring to inquiry-based and early basic
scientific methodology. Includes naturalistic, informal, and
structured experiences for young children.
CSU (C-ID ECE 130)
Prerequisite: Child Development 002.
LECTURE, 3 HOURS.
This course provides an overview of the knowledge and
skills to provide appropriate integrated curriculum and
environments for young children from birth to age six. Students
examine the impact that the interplay of quality
interactions and curriculum development in early childhood
education has on early brain development. The
teacher’s role in supporting optimal development and
learning for all young children using appropriate observation
and assessment strategies is emphasized. This course
provides strategies for best practices based on observation,
assessment, and planning across the curriculum,
including academic content areas, play, art, and creativity,
and development of social-emotional, communication,
and cognitive skills.
CSU (C-ID ECE 220)
LECTURE, 3 HOURS.
This course is an overview of the components of the
Health, Safety, and Nutritional components of an early
care and education program. Planning and issues of
operating a child development program under the Title 22
Department of Social Services Community Care Licensing
regulations are considered. Also included is a review
of common childhood diseases, universal health precautions,
First Aid and CPR requirements, environmental
safety, nutritional planning, and special health considerations
of the young child.
UC:CSU IGETC Area 4 (C-ID CDEV 110)
LECTURE, 3 HOURS.
This course is a study of the developing child in a societal
context focusing on the interrelationship of the family,
school and community and emphasizes historical and
socio-cultural factors. The processes of socialization and identity development are highlighted, showing the importance
of respectful, reciprocal relationships that support
and empower families. Some topics covered are:
Social influences on parenting styles, communication,
child-rearing and the relationships between the child,
family, and the school.
CSU
Prerequisites: All of the following: Child Development 002,
004, 007, 034, and 003 or 036 and 037.
LECTURE, 2 HOURS.
This course allows students to pursue an in-depth study in
Early Childhood Education with a focus on Science, Technology,
Engineering, Art, and Mathematics (STEAM). An
examination of child development theoretical approaches
to teaching STEAM are applied in a developmentally
appropriate and culturally relevant environment. Students
complete hours of field-based experiences at an
approved setting. Course content aligns with federal,
state, and local standards.
CSU (C-ID ECE 210)
Prerequisites: All of the following: Child Development 001,
002, 003, 004, 010, 011 and 034.
LECTURE, 2 HOURS; LABORATORY, 6 HOURS.
Note: Students must show proof of TB clearance, flu shot,
MMR, and Tdap immunizations.
This course provides supervised experience in an
approved licensed infant/toddler program, child development
program, special education center, or other early
care and education setting. Students relate all previous
theory and curriculum courses to practical application in
an approved early education classroom setting. Reflective
teaching practices are emphasized as student teachers
design, implement, and evaluate approaches, strategies,
and techniques that promote children’s development
and learning. State law requires a TB test (Mantoux Test)
or chest X-ray and criminal record clearance. In addition,
students must show proof of TB clearance, MMR, Flu Shot,
and Tdap vaccinations. In addition to the seminar class,
students are required to complete a minimum of 108 hours
at an approved field site, and to explore career pathway,
professional development, and teacher responsibility.
CSU
Prerequisites: Child Development 022 and 042.
LECTURE, 2 HOURS; LABORATORY, 6 HOURS.
Note: Students must show proof of TB clearance, flu shot,
MMR, and Tdap immunizations.
This course provides advanced supervised experiences in
an approved licensed early childhood program for infants,
toddlers, preschool, primary grades (transitional kindergarten
to third grade), and special education. Students
construct learning experiences for young children based
on observation and assessment while considering developmentally
appropriate practices, diverse populations,
learning environments, and families. State licensing regulations
require proof of Tuberculosis (TB) clearance and
vaccines against pertussis (whooping cough; Tdap), measles
(MMR), and an influenza vaccine (flu shot). A signed
statement of good health and a criminal record clearance may be requested. In addition to lecture class hours, students
must complete a minimum of 18 practicum hours in
the field.
CSU
Prerequisite: Child Development 001.
LECTURE, 3 HOURS.
Note: Tuberculosis clearance is required.
This course provides an in-depth study of the development
of infants and toddlers. Developmental domains and
areas include cognitive/language, social/emotional, and
perceptual/motor development, along with milestones of
children from birth to thirty six months. Particular attention
is given to attachment theory and research, with an
overview on brain development, the value of exploration
and play, early intervention, disabilities, and a relationship-
based care in the context of family systems of culture,
home language, and traditions. Respectful caregiving
principles, practices, and routines, within culturally and
developmentally appropriate environments are discussed.
Class instruction includes objective observations and
identification of developmental domains of infants and
toddlers in diverse settings.
UC:CSU
Prerequisite: Child Development 001.
LECTURE, 3 HOURS.
This course implements the principles of inclusive,
respectful caregiving for infants and toddlers within a
variety of curricular approaches. Infant-toddler education
is presented within the context of observation, assessment,
exploration, learning opportunities, and a relationship-
based approach. Topics include typical and atypical
development, early intervention, physical and social environments,
as well as health, safety, and licensing standards.
Students also examine skills in developing partnerships
with families, and the influences that language,
culture and traditions have on these relationships.
CSU (C-ID ECE 200)
Prerequisite: Child Development 001.
Advisory: Child Development 002.
LECTURE, 3 HOURS.
Note: Students must show proof of TB clearance, flu shot,
MMR, and Tdap immunizations.
This course examines appropriate use of assessment and
observation strategies to document and interpret children’s
growth and development and learning to join families
and professionals in promoting children’s success. The
student explores forms of documentation such as anecdotal
notes, running records, rating scales, portfolios, and
other forms that help to guide curriculum, support adaptations,
and communicate progress. The course includes
opportunity for observation in the field.
CSU
LECTURE, 1 HOUR.
This course is an overview of early development of desirable
attitudes towards reading and writing. A survey of
literature suitable for children birth to six, with emphasis
on techniques of selection and presentation methods is
emphasized.
CSU
Advisory: Child Development 036.
LECTURE, 2 HOURS.
This course is a survey of literature appropriate for children
ages 6 -12 years. Emphasis is given to selection, evaluation,
and presentation of literature using developmental
characteristics and needs of children. Includes development
of appropriate curriculum materials for the classroom
with a literature emphasis. Recommended for early
childhood and primary school teachers and parents.
CSU
Prerequisites: Child Development 001, 002, 003, 004, 010
and 011.
LECTURE, 3 HOURS.
This course prepares the student to establish and administer
an early childhood program. Financial aspects of
program operation, licensing regulations, policies, and
procedures pertaining to administration are emphasized.
California Commission on Teacher Credentialing requires
this course for Master Teacher, Site Supervisor and Program
Director Permits Option One.
CSU
Prerequisite: Child Development 038.
LECTURE, 3 HOURS.
This course provides training for administrators of early
childhood programs on a variety of topics pertaining to
administering an early childhood program. Topics include:
Leadership principles and practices, decision making processes,
supervision, mentorship, and staff development,
conflict resolution strategies, team building, and program
assessment and evaluation. Emphasis is on reflective
practice and the roles and development of early childhood
professionals as mentors and leaders. California
Commission on Teacher Credentialing requires this course
for Site Supervisor and Program Director Permits Option
One.
UC:CSU (C-ID ECE 230)
LECTURE, 3 HOURS.
This course examines the development of social identities
in diverse societies including theoretical and practical
implications affecting young children, families, programs,
teaching, education, and schooling. It focuses on
culturally relevant and linguistically appropriate anti-bias
approaches supporting all children in becoming competent
members of a diverse society. The course involves
self-reflection of one’s own understanding of educational
principles in integrating anti-goals in order to better
inform teaching practices and/or program development.
CSU
LECTURE, 3 HOURS.
This course is designed for students interested in working
with young children with special needs and their families.
Instruction focuses on accommodating and adapting the
physical environment, instructional strategies, and curriculum
to meet the needs of differently-abled children from
birth through preschool.
CSU
Advisory: Child Development 001.
LECTURE, 3 HOURS.
Note: Tuberculosis clearance may be required.
This course is an introduction to the study of exceptional
children, emphasizing their relationship to society. This
course also includes assessment, classification, and special
characteristics of children with disabilities. An overview
of programs and services is included with observation
in private and public special education programs.
CSU
LECTURE, 1 HOUR.
This course is designed for students interested in parent
training with emphasis on family life. Includes parent-child
relationships, alternatives in parenting styles, child development
and family resources.
CSU
LECTURE, 1 HOUR.
This course is designed for students interested in parent
training. Includes child-parent-teacher-school relationships,
parenting and teaching styles, and school strategies
in parent involvement and parent education. Emphasis
is on effective parent/school relationships.
CSU
LECTURE, 1 HOUR.
This course is designed to for those interested in parent
training. Includes parent-child relationship, alternatives in
parenting styles, child development, and family resources.
Emphasis is placed on community resources.
CSU
LECTURE, 1 HOUR.
This course discusses the business and operations of
a Family Child Care Home and provides an overview of
entrepreneurship in developing a family child care homebased
business. Introductory topics include small business
start-up, state licensing regulations, business management,
policies and procedures in operating a family
day care business, environmental design, and curriculum
planning.
CSU
Prerequisite: Child Development 060.
LECTURE, 1 HOUR.
This course considers strategies that can enhance the
operations of a family child care home (small business)
and through review of standards, practices, ethical,
and legal considerations in program planning as well
as assists in the development of advertising tools and an
operational manual.
CSU
LECTURE, 2 HOURS.
This course provides the study of developmental profiles
from pre-birth through age eight. Key concepts in current
child development literature, development of curriculum
plans, and children’s developmental assessment tools are
examined.
CSU
LECTURE, 2 HOURS.
Note: Child Development 003 or 004 can be substituted for
this course.
This course is designed for family childcare providers and
persons entering the profession. Emphasis is on play and
creative experiences in the home setting for children.
Course includes art, music and movement, language and
literacy, early math, dramatic play, and cooking.
CSU
Prerequisite: Child Development 001, 002, 003, 004, 010, and
011.
LECTURE, 2 HOURS.
This course is an overview of methods and principles of
mentoring and supervision of adults in early childhood
education settings. Topics explored include environmental
quality assessment, performance evaluation, leadership
styles, group dynamics, conflict resolution, staff development,
and staff roles and responsibilities. This course is
required for upper levels of the California Child Development
Permit, and to become a California Early Childhood
Mentor.
Launch your teaching career at ELAC. EDUC courses prepare you for Elementary Education, Child Development, and more. Gain the skills to nurture young minds and inspire future generations. Explore flexible online and traditional class options. Start your journey today!
Education
UC:CSU
LECTURE, 3 HOURS.
This course introduces students to the field of professional
education and the concepts and issues that are
related to K - 12 education. Topics of this course include a
basic understanding of a teacher’s role and challenges in
society, contemporary education issues within historical,
social, philosophical, legal, and political contexts, impact
of government policies on schools and children, and the
various perspectives on curriculum and instruction.
UC:CSU IGETC area 4 (C-ID EDUC 200)
LECTURE, 2.5 HOURS; LABORATORY, 2.5 HOURS.
In this course, students examine the fundamental theories
of the American educational institution in its social,
political, and economic contexts. Concepts and methods
from the fields of sociology, philosophy, and the politics of
education are used to analyze the current conditions of
American schools. Consideration of contemporary issues,
including the roles of the American school in a democratic,
multi-cultural society are emphasized. Analysis
of the historical, philosophical, and social foundations of
education and of school organization are used to evaluate
selected proposals and models for reform.
Family and Consumer Studies
Build strong families and healthy habits with FAM & CS at ELAC. Explore courses in nutrition, marriage & family life, and consumer sciences. Gain the knowledge to improve your well-being and navigate life's transitions. Prepare for careers in childcare, family services, and more. Flexible online and in-person classes are available. Start building your future today!
CSU
LECTURE, 3 HOURS.
This course is an analysis of the developmental changes,
social problems, and specific needs of the older adult
in the interdisciplinary study of gerontology. The course
includes an investigation of everyday situations with
emphasis on consumerism, housing, health, nutrition,
community resources, and changing family roles. The
course combines academic research with an empathetic
view of the lives of older people to involve students emotionally
and intellectually in the material while reinforcing
experiential learning.
UC:CSU (C-ID NUTR 110)
LECTURE, 3 HOURS.
This course reviews scientific concepts of nutrition relating
to the functioning of nutrients in basic life processes.
It includes an overview of digestion and the metabolism
of nutrients. Foods are discussed as a source of nutrients,
and evidence is reviewed as to the effects of nutrition on
health. The emphasis of the course is on issues of current
interest and on worldwide problems of food nutrition. Students
complete a personal dietary assessment, synthesizing
data from a computerized dietary program and family
tree, and appraise nutritional disease risk factors. Students
evaluate excesses and deficiencies and construct
practices that establish and maintain a healthy lifestyle
and result in a healthier mind, healthier nutritional eating
practices, enhancing the spirit, and nourishing the body
UC:CSU
IGETC Area 4G, 4J (C-ID SOCI 130)
LECTURE, 3 HOURS.
This course examines marriages and families as institutions
within American society and as dynamic systems
leading to interpersonal growth and intimate relationships
over the course of the family life cycle, including historical
and recent changes. The course explores the diversity of
family patterns and marriages in the U.S. as well as comparisons
to non-Western cultures. Areas of study include,
but are not limited to, gender roles, sexuality, marital interaction
and power, parenting issues, financial matters, and
divorce and remarriage.
CSU
LECTURE, 3 HOURS.
This course focuses on basic principles covering the nutritional
needs of pregnant/lactating women/infants and
children to promote optimum physical/mental development
and disease prevention. Special emphasis is placed
on nutritional planning and education for children through
the development of nutrition plans, individual projects,
curriculum, and materials.
CSU
LECTURE, 3 HOURS.
This course provides individuals with skills for understanding
and using internal and external resources to
function effectively in the present and in future society.
Students learn techniques for improving self-understanding
and interpersonal relationships that reflect decision-
making, time, energy, stress, and conflict and money
management.