Child & Family Studies (CFS)

CFS-120 3 Units Child Development

54 hours lecture; 54 hours total

Examines the progression of development in the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional domains and identifies developmental milestones for children from conception through adolescence. Emphasis on interactions between biological processes and environmental factors. Students will observe children, evaluate individual differences, and analyze characteristics of development at various stages according to developmental theories.

Transfers to both UC/CSU

CFS-121 3 Units Health, Safety & Nutrition

54 hours lecture; 54 hours total

This course will provide an introduction to the laws, regulations, standards, policies, procedures, and best practices related to health, safety, and nutrition in care and education settings for children birth through middle childhood. Includes the teacher's role in prevention strategies, nutrition and meal planning, integrating health safety and nutrition experiences into daily routines, and overall risk management.

Transfers to CSU only

CFS-122 3 Units Principles & Practices of Teaching Young Children

54 hours lecture; 54 hours total

Historical contexts and theoretical perspectives of developmentally appropriate practice in early care and education for children birth through age eight. Explores the typical roles and expectations of early childhood educators. Identifies professional ethics, career pathways, and professional standards. Introduces best practices for developmentally appropriate learning environments, curriculum, and effective pedagogy for young children including how play contributes to children's learning, growth, and development.

Transfers to CSU only

CFS-123 4 Units Observation & Assessment

54 hours lecture; 54 hours lab; 108 hours total

Prerequisite: Completion of CFS-120 with a minimum grade of C, a negative TB test, and a Good Health Statement.

Introduces the appropriate use of assessment and observation tools and strategies to document young children's development and learning. The use of findings to inform and plan learning environments and experiences are emphasized. Recording strategies, rating systems, portfolios, and multiple assessment tools will be discussed, along with strategies for collaboration with families and professionals. Requires a good health statement, negative TB test, and a fingerprint clearance.

Transfers to CSU only

CFS-125 0.5 Units Using Simple Signs With Children in the Early Care and Education Setting

9 hours lecture; 9 hours total

This course explores the benefits and research regarding signing with infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. The course will also cover techniques for implementing the use of signs in an Early Care and Education classroom with children, as well as basic signing exercises and games.

Transfers to CSU only

CFS-130 3 Units The Creative Process in Young Children

54 hours lecture; 54 hours total

Prerequisite: Completion of CFS-122 and CFS-123 with a minimum grade of C.

Students will explore techniques that support the creative abilities of young children in the creative arts including explorations with textures and movement, color, representational drawing and painting, 3-dimensional media, and various art mediums. This course emphasizes a culture of inquiry and fostering children's long-term investigative approaches using art that is based on children's developmental progression and cognitive capacities.

Transfers to CSU only

CFS-135 3 Units The Cognitive Development of Young Children

54 hours lecture; 54 hours total

Prerequisite: Completion of CFS-122 and CFS-123 with a minimum grade of C.

This course explores cognitive development in young children including how they think and how they develop theories and concepts about the world around them. While exploring the maturation of the brain and development, students will investigate the materials and environments that support children's cognitive development, including the development of math, science, and critical thinking skills.

Transfers to CSU only

CFS-140 3 Units The Child, Family and Community

54 hours lecture; 54 hours total

The processes of socialization focusing on the interrelationship of family, school, and community. Examines the influence of multiple societal contexts. Explores the role of collaboration between family, community, and schools in supporting children's development, birth through adolescence.

Transfers to both UC/CSU

CFS-145 3 Units Language Development & Early Literacy

54 hours lecture; 54 hours total

The development of language in young children and the role of literature are examined, including a detailed exploration of quality children's literature. The practical use of language and literature in a variety of early childhood settings will be discussed.

Transfers to CSU only

CFS-150 3 Units Infant and Toddler Development

54 hours lecture; 54 hours total

Prerequisite: Completion of CFS-120 with a minimum grade of C.

A study of infants and toddlers from pre-conception to age three including physical, cognitive, language, social, and emotional growth and development. Applies theoretical frameworks to interpret behavior and interactions between heredity and environment. Emphasizes the role of family and relationships in development.

Transfers to CSU only

CFS-151 3 Units Care and Education for Infants and Toddlers

54 hours lecture; 54 hours total

Prerequisite: Completion of CFS-150 with a minimum grade of C.

Applies current theory and research to the care and education of infants and toddlers in group settings. Examines essential policies, principles and practices that lead to quality care and developmentally appropriate curriculum for children birth to 36 months.

Transfers to CSU only

CFS-155 3 Units Sensitive Issues in Early Childhood

54 hours lecture; 54 hours total

This is an introductory course on issues in life that affect children: marriage; separation and divorce; death; sex and sexuality; self-acceptance; cultural and racial identity; hospitalization; and child abuse. This course is designed for parents, individuals in the helping professions, early childhood students, and other interested persons.

Transfers to CSU only

CFS-160 3 Units Parenting

54 hours lecture; 54 hours total

This course explores a wide range of parenting theories and techniques, utilizing a theoretical foundation with a practical approach. There is particular emphasis on building self-esteem, verbal and non-verbal communication, power, and control.

Transfers to CSU only

CFS-161 3 Units Working With Families

54 hours lecture; 54 hours total

This course explores the value of relationships between families and the staff within the school setting. Includes an in-depth exploration of key concepts on how to deal effectively with families.

Transfers to CSU only

CFS-165 3 Units Curriculum and Environments in Early Childhood Programs

54 hours lecture; 54 hours total

Prerequisite: Completion of CFS-120 and CFS-122 with a minimum grade of C.

Developmentally appropriate curriculum and environments for children birth through age eight. Students will use knowledge of children's development, theories of learning and development, and examples from various models of developmentally appropriate practice to plan environments and curriculum in all content areas to support children's development and learning integrated throughout indoor and outdoor settings. Students will examine teacher's role in supporting development and fostering the joy of learning for all young children using observation and assessment strategies emphasizing the essential role of play.

Transfers to CSU only

CFS-170 3 Units Studying the Reggio Emilia Approach

54 hours lecture; 54 hours total

This is an introductory course in the theory, philosophy, and inspiration of Reggio Emilia approach to early childhood education. Students will explore an interpretation of the basic principles of this approach. Emphasis is on developing a new image of the child in connection with the role of adults (teachers and parents), developing relationships, interactions, and experiences based on "progettazione" (term used in Reggio Emilia for prediction, hypothesis, projections of emergent projects).

Transfers to CSU only

CFS-175 3 Units Meeting the Developmental Needs of the School-Aged Child

54 hours lecture; 54 hours total

The student will be exposed to the philosophy, principles and practices of school-age child care. Emphasis is on preparing students to work with children in a group setting. Students will learn techniques for guiding behavior, structuring program flow, and preparing environment to meet the needs of the school age child.

Transfers to CSU only

CFS-180 3 Units The Anthropology of Childhood

54 hours lecture; 54 hours total

A comparative study of childhood as experienced in a variety of world cultures. Explores different cultural patterns of child rearing and the differential experiences of childhood as they are influenced by race, class, gender and environmental variables. The role of women and girls as childbearers, caretakers and providers will be emphasized. The effects of rapid culture change on children will be studied with particular emphasis on poverty, armed conflict, and HIV/AIDS. Cross-listed with ANTH-180.

Transfers to both UC/CSU

CFS-184 3 Units Teaching Children in a Diverse Society

54 hours lecture; 54 hours total

Examines the historical and current perspectives on diversity and inclusion and the impact of systemic societal influences on children's development, learning, and school experiences. Strategies for developmentally, culturally, and linguistically appropriate anti-bias curriculum will be explored as well as approaches to promote inclusive and anti-racist classroom communities. Includes self-reflection on the influence of teachers' own culture and life experiences on teaching and interactions with children and families

Transfers to CSU only

CFS-185 3 Units Trauma and Early Childhood Development

54 hours lecture; 54 hours total

Recommended Preparation: Completion of CFS-120 with a minimum grade of C.

Provides an overview of trauma-informed care in early care and education, including the impact of trauma on the developing child, protective and resiliency factors, and the benefits and opportunities of partnering with families. It explores the impact of early childhood traumatic experiences on physical, cognitive, and psychological development throughout the lifespan.

CFS-190 3 Units Children with Special Needs

54 hours lecture; 54 hours total

Introduces the variations in development of children with special needs ages birth through eight and the resulting impact on families. Includes an overview of historical and societal influences, laws relating to children with special needs, and the identification and referral process.

Transfers to CSU only

CFS-196 3 Units Music and Movement in Early Childhood

54 hours lecture; 54 hours total

Introduction to teaching music and movement to young children. Basic elements such as beat, rhythm, timbre, dynamics, form, and melody will be explored in developmentally appropriate and culturally sensitive ways. Songs, games, finger plays, rhymes, dances, and playing instruments wll be presented. Cross-listed with MUSI-196.

Transfers to CSU only

CFS-200 3 Units Early Intervention Strategies

54 hours lecture; 54 hours total

Covers curriculum and intervention strategies for working with children with special needs in partnership with their families. Focuses on the use of observation and assessment in meeting the individualized needs of children in inclusive and natural environments. Includes the role of the teacher as a professional working with families, collaboration with interdisciplinary teams, and cultural competence.

Transfers to CSU only

CFS-223 5 Units Student Teaching - Practicum

36 hours lecture; 162 hours lab; 198 hours total

Prerequisite: Completion of CFS-122, CFS-123 and CFS-140 with a minimum grade of C, a negative TB test, a Good Health Statement, required immunizations per regulations, and a fingerprint clearance.

Prerequisites or Corequisites: Concurrent enrollment in or previous completion of CFS-165 with a minimum grade of C.

Demonstration of developmentally appropriate early childhood program planning and teaching competencies under the supervision of ECE/CD faculty and other qualified early education professionals. Students will utilize practical classroom experiences to make connections between theory and practice, develop professional behaviors, and build a comprehensive understanding of children and families. Reflective practice will be emphasized as student teachers design, implement, and evaluate approaches, strategies, and techniques that promote development and learning. Includes exploration of career pathways, professional development, and teacher responsibilities.

Transfers to CSU only

CFS-225 5 Units Fieldwork in Early Intervention

36 hours lecture; 162 hours lab; 198 hours total

Prerequisite: Completion of CFS-200 with a minimum grade of C.

This course provides students with a field experience/practicum with children with special needs, including natural environments, inclusive environments, and self-contained environments. Students will apply theory and models of intervention in an early childhood special education setting or with a focus child in a general education classroom. This course includes a lecture and a 9-hour a week early intervention placement.

Transfers to CSU only

CFS-250 2 Units Adult Supervision and Mentoring in Early Care and Education

36 hours lecture; 36 hours total

This course explores the methods and principles of supervising student teachers, volunteers, staff, and other adults in early care and education settings. Emphasis is on the roles and development of early childhood professionals as mentors and leaders.

Transfers to CSU only

CFS-270 3 Units Admin & Supervision of Early Childhood Programs 1

54 hours lecture; 54 hours total

Prerequisite: Completion of CFS-120 and CFS-140 with a minimum grade of C.

Introduction to the administration of early childhood programs. This course covers program types, budget, management, regulations, laws, and implementation of policies and procedures. Examines administrative tools, philosophies, and techniques needed to organize, open, and operate an early care and education program.

Transfers to CSU only

CFS-271 3 Units Supervision & Admininistration of Early Childhood Programs II

54 hours lecture; 54 hours total

Prerequisite: Completion of CFS-270 with a minimum grade of C.

Effective strategies for personnel management and leadership in early care and education settings. Includes legal and ethical responsibilities, supervision techniques, professional development, and reflective practices for a diverse and inclusive early care and education program.

Transfers to CSU only

CFS-286 3 Units Preschool and Early Primary Development For the Transitional Kindergarten

54 hours lecture; 54 hours total

Examines theories of development and the developmental processes focusing on children ages 3-6. Developmental benchmarks in the physical, cognitive, social, emotional, and language domains are identified as well as the multiple influences that impact children's development. This course is designed for those working with students in transitional kindergarten, kindergarten, and early education classrooms.

Transfers to CSU only

CFS-287 3 Units Strategies for Working With Challenging Behaviors

54 hours lecture; 54 hours total

Appropriate for classroom teachers in various settings, students will identify developmentally appropriate behaviors, challenging behaviors and the various influences that effect children's behavior. Students will analyze children's behaviors and select strategies to make positive changes. Emphasizes the connection between children's social and emotional development and their success in the classroom, and how the teachers' perceptions, experiences, and behavior influence child behaviors.

Transfers to CSU only

CFS-288 1 Unit CA Preschool Foundations & Frameworks: English Language Development

18 hours lecture; 18 hours total

Introduction to the English language learners domain of the California Preschool Learning Foundations and Frameworks including strands of listening, speaking, reading and writing. Provides practical strategies for implementing the curriculum frameworks developed for this domain. Applicable to required or professional development units for Child Development Permit holders, pre-school, transitional kindergarten, and early-primary teachers.

Transfers to CSU only

CFS-289 1 Unit CA Preschool Foundations & Frameworks: Language, Literacy

18 hours lecture; 18 hours total

Introduction to the language and literacy development domain in the California Preschool Learning Foundations and Frameworks including the strands of listening and speaking, reading, and writing. Provides practical considerations for implementing the curriculum frameworks developed for this domain. Applicable to required or professional development units for Child Development Permit holders, pre-school, transitional kindergarten, and early-primary teachers.

Transfers to CSU only

CFS-290 1 Unit CA Preschool Foundations & Frameworks: Visual Arts

18 hours lecture; 18 hours total

Introduction to the visual arts domain of the California Preschool Learning Foundations and Frameworks including artistic expression and response, and skills using various art mediums. Provides practical strategies for implementing the curriculum frameworks developed for this domain. Applicable to required or professional development units for Child Development Permit holders, preschool, transitional kindergarten, and early-primary teachers.

Transfers to CSU only

CFS-291 1 Unit CA Preschool Foundations & Frameworks: Performing Arts

18 hours lecture; 18 hours total

Introduction to the performing arts domain of the California Preschool Learning Foundations and Frameworks including strands of music, drama, and dance. Provides practical strategies for implementing the curriculum frameworks developed for this domain. Applicable to required or professional development units for Child Development Permit holders, pre-school, transitional kindergarten, and early-primary teachers.

Transfers to CSU only

CFS-292 1 Unit CA Preschool Founsations & Frameworks: Health

18 hours lecture; 18 hours total

Introduction to the health domain of the California Preschool Learning Foundations and Frameworks including strands of health habits, safety, and nutrition. Provides practical strategies for implementing the curriculum frameworks. Applicable to required or professional development units for Child Development Permit holders, as well as pre-school, transitional kindergarten, and early-primary teachers.

Transfers to CSU only

CFS-293 1 Unit CA Preschool Foundations & Frameworks: History/Social Science

18 hours lecture; 18 hours total

Introduction to the history and social science domain of the California Preschool Learning Foundations and Frameworks including strands of self and society, civics, history, geography, ecology, and economics. Provides practical strategies for implementing the curriculum frameworks developed for this domain. Applicable to required or professional development units for Child Development Permit holders, pre-school, transitional kindergarten, and early-primary teachers.

Transfers to CSU only

CFS-294 1 Unit CA Preschool Foundations & Frameworks: Math

18 hours lecture; 18 hours total

Introduction to the mathematics domain of the California Preschool Learning Foundations and Frameworks including the strands of number sense, algebra and functions, measurement, geometry, and mathematical reasoning. Provides strategies for implementing the curriculum frameworks developed for this domain. Applicable to required or professional development units for Child Development Permit holders, pre-school, transitional kindergarten, and early-primary teachers.

Transfers to CSU only

CFS-295 1 Unit CA Preschool Foundations & Frameworks: Physical Development

18 hours lecture; 18 hours total

Introduction to the physical development domain of the California Preschool Learning Foundations and Frameworks including strands of fundamental movement skills, perceptual-motor skills and movement concepts, and active physical play. Provides practical strategies for implementing the curriculum frameworks developed for this domain. Applicable to required, or professional development, units for Child Development Permit holders, pre-school, transitional kindergarten, and early-primary teachers.

Transfers to CSU only

CFS-296 1 Unit CA Preschool Foundations & Frameworks: Science

18 hours lecture; 18 hours total

Introduces the science domain of the California Preschool Learning Foundations and Frameworks including the strands of scientific inquiry, physical, life, and earth sciences and provides practical strategies for implementing the curriculum frameworks developed for this domain. Applicable to required, or professional development, units for Child Development Permit holders, pre-school, transitional kindergarten, and early-primary teachers.

Transfers to CSU only

CFS-297 1 Unit CA Preschool Foundations & Frameworks: Social and Emotional

18 hours lecture; 18 hours total

Introduction to the social and emotional development domain of the California Preschool Learning Foundations and Frameworks including the strands of self, social interaction, and relationships. Provides practical strategies for implementing the curriculum frameworks developed for this domain. Applicable to required, or professional development, units for Child Development Permit holders, pre-school, transitional kindergarten (TK), and early-primary teachers.

Transfers to CSU only

CFS-299 1 Unit Transitional Kindergarten Reflective Practice

18 hours lecture; 18 hours total

This course is designed for teachers working in, or preparing to work in, a transitional kindergarten. It is designed for individuals currently working with young children. Students will engage in the reflective practice cycle process. Students will use a variety of instructional strategies, including purposeful play, to assess and support children's learning and development. This course is intended to be a capstone course.

Transfers to CSU only