Locations:

Benton Harbor High School
Coloma High School

Career Opportunities Include:

· Family/Child Care Provider
· Preschool/Elementary Teacher
· Teacher Assistant

GRADES: 11-12

*This course may be available for college credit through Lake Michigan College.

Class Description

The Child Care Services program prepares students for a career in the field of early childhood development. Students will explore the methods and materials used in working with young children and have the opportunity to spend time in local preschools and elementary classrooms for hands-on experience in the field. Upon completion of this program, students will have the experience and skills necessary to pursue a Child Development Associate (CDA) certificate.

Content Areas

· Child Development
· Safety
· Nutrition
· Families and Child Care
· Children's Health
· Observation Skills
· Curriculum Planning for Preschoolers
· Challenges in Child Care
· Physical, Intellectual, Social, and Moral Development of Children

Career Outlook

Child care workers are responsible for educating and caring for children in a variety of settings. They might work in day care centers, preschools, community centers, government agencies or large businesses that offer day care to employees.

In 2008, hourly earnings of nonsupervisory workers in the child day care services industry averaged $11.32, much less than the average of $18.08 throughout private industry.

Source: U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook 2007-2008 Edition. http://bls.gov/oco/