Through the following program, you can develop knowledge and explore the skills needed to work and interact with children of all ages in a meaningful way.
Current research on early care and education has emphasized the importance of formal education and specialized coursework combined with supervised field experience in the development of teachers who are able to provide high quality educational experiences for children. Research suggests that the role of caring and responsive adults is the single largest predictor in developing a child's life.
Child Development and Early Childhood Education provides a wide array of career opportunities for working with children and their families. These opportunities include, but not limited to, becoming a:
- Preschool teacher
- Infant/toddler caregiver
- Assistant teacher
- Site supervisor
- Center director
- Family childcare provider
Early Childhood Education is a profession full of purpose and personal reward. Research continues to shows that children who attend high-quality early childhood programs are more likely to be ready for school and have a more successful and meaningful life. Come gain the knowledge and skills needed by the high-quality professionals working with young children today!
Faculty & Staff
CTC Child Development Teaching Permit:
Child Development courses at Mendocino College will satisfy requirements to obtain a Child Development Teaching Permit. A child development pathway can provide you with a variety of job opportunities such as assistant teacher, preschool teacher, teacher, site supervisor or program director. The California Commission on Teacher Credentialing grants permits in accordance with the Child Development Permit Matrix. Applications are separate from Mendocino College and must be submitted to California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. Please contact Child Development faculty member, Melissa Nole, or visit the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing website at https://www.ctc.ca.gov/credentials/req-child-dev for more information regarding the Permit Matrix and Professional Growth Advisors.
Financial Grant Opportunity for Child Development Students:
The Child Development Training Consortium (CDTC) provides support for specific educational expenses to students attending California community colleges (as identified on the CDTC website). Students pursuing a career in early childhood or child development, MAY be eligible to apply for the Educational Support Grant (ESG): https://www.childdevelopment.org/
For questions regarding eligibility, please contact Melissa Nole.
