EDEC 210 - Meeting the Needs of Families

Credit(s): 4

This course includes the development of child advocacy skills through awareness of the child’s role in the family and society. Students will increase their understanding of diverse family structures and techniques to encourage parent-teacher partnerships. Students will learn about existing community resources and develop the ability to access resources to meet the needs of children and families. (Spring Semester)

Course Learning Outcomes: Upon completion of the course, students will be able to

Explain the complex characteristics and importance of children’s families and communities including home language, cultural values, ethnicity, socioeconomic conditions, family structures, relationships, stresses, childhood trauma and adverse childhood experiences, supports, and community resources.
Create respectful, reciprocal relationships with families using a range of formal and informal strategies such as home visits, parent-teacher conferences, family nights, and transition planning into and out of early childhood programs including kindergarten.
Promote and encourage family involvement in all aspects of children’s development and learning including assisting families to find and refer resources concerning parenting, mental health, health care, and financial assistance.
Demonstrate essential knowledge and core skills in team building and in communicating with families and colleagues from other disciplines to encourage familiesꞌ participation in curriculum and program development as well as assessment of children’s learning, including identification of children’s strengths and needs.
Collaborate with multiple stakeholders, including families and interdisciplinary professionals to meet the developmental needs of each child.