This class will provide a critical overview on the theories and stages of early childhood development from birth to age 6 as it relates to the whole child (physical, social, emotional, and cognitive areas) for the purposes of identifying typical and atypical behaviors, and developmental patterns. Participants will recognize important contexts that shape children’s development, such as family, childcare, trauma, inequities, bias, and racism. A brief overview of early childhood care and education including historical and cultural perspectives, organization, structure, programming, and evidence-based practices. Participants will also learn to identify effective instructional practices that enhances and meets the individual needs of all children.  This course also covers the appropriate use of assessment and observation strategies to document development of fine and gross motor, cognitive, and social-emotional skills. Exploration of observational documenting strategies, rating systems, portfolios, and multiple assessment methods to inform, prevent and solve problems in behavior management through the identification and application of appropriate child guidance is also covered.