ECDV 150 - Administration of Early Childhood Programs

3 Credit: (3 lecture, 0 lab, 0 clinical) 3 Contact Hours: [ECDV 120 ]

This course provides an in-depth study of the role of an early childhood program administrator in such areas as program administration; program planning; staff administration; management of health, safety, and nutrition components; budgeting, family involvement, and maintaining program quality.
OFFERED: spring semesters

Course Goals/ Objectives/ Competencies:
Goal 1:  Display understanding of the broad responsibilities of an early childhood program director.

1. Articulate the duties of a program director in the areas of administration, leadership, management, and ethical conduct. 
2. Explain strategies for effective communication, delegation, organization as a program director.
3. Identify the elements of efficient program planning.
4. Describe the importance of professional development to the role of program director.

Goal 2:  Demonstrate understanding of the importance of diversity in early childhood programming.

1. Explain the role of diversity in early childhood programming.
2. Summarize components of diverse early childhood programming.
3. Describe effective implementation of diversity in early childhood programming.

Goal 3:  Demonstrate understanding of the different types of early childhood programs.

1. Articulate the differences between the different types of early childhood programs.
2. Describe the role of program administrator in different types of early childhood programs.

Goal 4:  Demonstrate an understanding of all aspects of program planning.

1. Summarize primary components of overall program planning including program goals, curriculum, assessment, and program policies/procedures.
2. Articulate understanding of developmentally appropriate programming for infants, toddlers, preschoolers, school-age children, and adaptations within each program for special needs.
3. Explain the role and structure of family childcare.

Goal 5:  Demonstrate an understanding of the elements of staff administration.

1. Describe the process of staffing including recruitment, application, selection, turnover, and retention.
2. Articulate the importance of personnel policies, staff supervision, training, and stress management techniques.
3. Explain how facilitate effective meetings.

Goal 6:  Demonstrate an understanding of the components of program management.

1. Explain the process of budgeting in early childhood programs.
2. Describe the elements of food service for children including purchase, preparation, and food safety.
3. Identify the importance of physical activity as part of early childhood program management.
4. Understand the elements of creating a safe and healthy learning environment.