This introductory course examines the major physical, cognitive/language and social-emotional developmental milestones for children from prenatal to early childhood. Paly offers an honors option where students can also earn college credit. The courses through Foothill are CHLD 1 (4 units, UC/CSU transferable) and CHLD 56N (4 units, CSU transferable). This course runs at Paly during the normal school day. Students take the bus to Greendell approximately twice per week to work directly with young children.
First semester students study developmental theory, observe children, evaluate individual differences and analyze characteristics of development at various stages. Students will create lesson plans that demonstrate their knowledge of development, engage in class and online discussions and complete a project on language development and literacy.
Second semester students examine the underlying theoretical principles of developmentally appropriate practices. The key role of relationships, constructive adult-child interactions, and teaching strategies in supporting physical, social, creative and intellectual development of the child are examined and applied in the preschool classroom through lesson plans and projects. Students review the historical roots of early childhood programs and the evolution of the professional practices promoting advocacy, ethics and professional identity. Students also write a research paper on current trends in the field.
This course is open to all grade levels.
Prerequisites: None
UC Approved Course
Satisfies CTE or Social Studies elective Paly graduation requirement.
If taking Honors Level:
Weighted Grade
8 Units of College Credit
Course Code- 5912 or 5913 for Honors
First semester students study developmental theory, observe children, evaluate individual differences and analyze characteristics of development at various stages. Students will create lesson plans that demonstrate their knowledge of development, engage in class and online discussions and complete a project on language development and literacy.
Second semester students examine the underlying theoretical principles of developmentally appropriate practices. The key role of relationships, constructive adult-child interactions, and teaching strategies in supporting physical, social, creative and intellectual development of the child are examined and applied in the preschool classroom through lesson plans and projects. Students review the historical roots of early childhood programs and the evolution of the professional practices promoting advocacy, ethics and professional identity. Students also write a research paper on current trends in the field.
This course is open to all grade levels.
Prerequisites: None
UC Approved Course
Satisfies CTE or Social Studies elective Paly graduation requirement.
If taking Honors Level:
Weighted Grade
8 Units of College Credit
Course Code- 5912 or 5913 for Honors