Introduction to Early Childhood Education

This Landing Pad provides information and resources that can be incorporated into introductory early childhood courses to support the inclusion of children with disabilities and who are culturally, and ethnically diverse.
Course Description

This course* introduces the foundations of early childhood education, the diverse educational settings for young children, professionalism and planning intentional developmentally appropriate experiences for each child. Topics include theoretical foundations, national early learning standards, NC Foundations for Early Learning and Development, state regulations, program types, career options, professionalism, ethical conduct, quality inclusive environments, and curriculum responsive to the needs of each child/family. Upon completion, students should be able to design a career/professional development plan, appropriate environments, schedules, and activity plans. *EDU 119

Resources To Support Teaching This Course
About
Find free high quality resources including websites, research and policy briefs, videos, podcasts and audio clips.
Publication Date
February 28, 2019

North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development

About
The 2013 North Carolina Foundations for Early Learning and Development is an updated combination of the 2005 and 2007 Foundations documents. Organized according to five domains of the learning and development of young children from birth through kindergarten, this Foundations document outlines the goals and developmental indicators for each domain. Within each domain, strategies for early educators and families to support infants and toddlers, and preschoolers are provided respectively. Also included is a section on supporting dual language learners.
Publication Date
2013

Topic: 

  • Environment
  • Instruction
  • Literacy
  • STEM
  • Early Intervention
  • Planning and Facilitation Tools

Types of Diversity: 

  • Children with Disabilities
  • Children and Families who are Culturally, Racially, and Ethnically Diverse
  • Children who are Dual Language Learners

DEC Recommended Practices in Early Intervention/Early Childhood Special Education

About
This publication presents the DEC recommended practices for early intervention and early childhood special education. These practices are based on the best available research as well as the professional wisdom and experience of the field.
Publication Date
2014

Topic: 

  • Assessment
  • IEPs/IFSPs
  • Environment
  • Family
  • Interaction
  • Instruction
  • Early Intervention
  • Planning and Facilitation Tools
  • Teaming and Collaboration
  • Transition
  • Leadership
  • Policy
  • Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
  • Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
  • Inclusion

Resource Type: 

  • Website
  • Handouts/Tipsheets
  • Print

Types of Diversity: 

  • Children with Disabilities
  • Children and Families who are Culturally, Racially, and Ethnically Diverse
  • Children who are Dual Language Learners
  • Children and Families who have Experienced Maltreatment and Trauma