Department of Early Childhood & Family Studies

Welcome!

Philosophy

The Department of Early Childhood & Family Studies program is based on well researched theories of child development and reflects the position document on Developmentally Appropriate Practice in Early Childhood Programs adopted by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC, 1997).

Children develop in sequential stages, yet are individualized in their rate of development. Constructing their own understandings through a range of integrated experiences, they are active learners.

Teachers of young children should be reflective about their practice in the classroom and create environments of trust, exploration and discovery. Cultural diversity must be honored and respected, and alternative strategies to solving problems are encouraged and valued.

Because families provide the primary context for young children’s learning and development, we recognize that creating effective partnerships with families is at the center of the educational process. Understanding diverse families and the variety of ways they participate in the education of their children is stressed.

The department encourages students to become life-long learners through membership in professional organizations and continuing professional education.

What we offer:

• Undergraduate and Graduate Programs.
• A faculty of dedicated professionals in the field of Early Childhood care and education.
• Flexible faculty office hours in order to meet students’ needs.
• A Dual Certification in the state of New Jersey: P-3 and K-5 (Undergraduate) and P-3 Certification (Graduate).
• A variety of Early Childhood settings in which to do your fieldwork.
• A selection of courses offered in the day, evening, and online via the Internet.