Build Strong Beginnings for Young Learners
The Child Development Associate learning pathway prepares students to support the growth, development, and learning of young children in early childhood settings. Students develop foundational knowledge and practical skills in child development, developmentally appropriate practices, learning environments, communication, and professional responsibilities. The Child Development Associate, ICLC provides an entry point into the pathway and supports continued education through stackable Child Development certificates and degrees.
Career Opportunities and Income
Visit the Department Website for information regarding career opportunities and potential earnings in the Greater Houston region.
Job Entry Requirements. The College informs all students in this program who may have a criminal background that a criminal history could keep graduates from being licensed by the state of Texas. Students with any questions about their background and licensure may speak with the program's department chair. This is in accordance with Texas House Bill 1508 amendments to Texas Occupations Code Sec. 53.152.
Learning & Career Pathway
The learning pathway for this career track has a series of related and “stacked” certificates and degrees. You may start at any point on the pathway and earn the certificates on your way to completing the degree.
- Child Development Associate, ICLC (4 months)
- Child Development, Associate Training for Director, Occupational Certificate (4 months)
- Child Development/Early Childhood Education, Certificate of Technology (1.5 years)
- Child Development/Early Childhood Education, Associate of Applied Science (2 years)
- Early Childhood Education, Bachelor of Applied Science (4 years)
Learning Outcomes and Career Skills
A student completing the last award in the pathway will be able to:
- Use developmentally appropriate practices to support children's learning.
- Interpret observations and assessments to plan and implement child-centered curriculum.
- Communicate effectively with children, families, co-workers, and the community.
- Exhibit ethical behavior and professional responsibilities as required by the field of early childhood.
- Utilize technology to manage professional responsibilities.
- Create an equitable environment inclusive of all children, families, colleagues, and community.
- Implement knowledge of regulatory agencies that govern early childhood programs.
Locations
College Admission
San Jacinto College is an open admission institution. All students are welcome to apply and will be admitted to the College. You may begin the process on the College’s “How to Apply” webpage.
Program Admission
There are no additional admission requirements for this program; you only need to complete your application to the College, as noted in “College Admission” above, and follow the enrollment steps.
Plan of Study
IC-CHID
| First Year | ||
|---|---|---|
| First Term | Credits | |
| CDEC 1317 | Child Development Associate Training I | 3 |
| CDEC 2322 | Child Development Associate Training II | 3 |
| CDEC 2324 | Child Development Associate Training III | 3 |
| Credits | 9 | |
| Total Credits | 9 | |
Credentialing Examination (Licensure or Certification): Child Development Associate (CDA), Council for Professional Recognition