Program: 68010

The Preschool Certificate includes college-level coursework in child development, the preschool curriculum, the classroom environment, adult-child interaction, parent relationships, and other aspects associated with preschool children. The curriculum provides a study of the skills and information necessary to design a developmentally appropriate environment and curriculum for preschoolers. Program courses may be applied toward the Child Care Management Certificate and the AS in Early Childhood Education and Management degree program.

This program includes coursework required for the state-approved Florida Child Care Professional Credential (FCCPC) with the completion of CHD 1380 Facilitating Development, CHD 2320 Early Childhood Curriculum, CHD 2220 Child Growth and Development, and CHD 1440 Early Learning Practicum. Polk State submits records for each individual who completes the Preschool Certificate Program to the Department of Children and Families (DCF) to receive the FCCPC. A student who receives the DCF-issued FCCPC is qualified to seek employment in a variety of early childhood-related job opportunities, including voluntary pre-kindergarten instruction.

Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs):
Upon successful completion of the program, the graduate is able to:
PLO 1: Explain developmental tasks relative to the various stages of development of young children.
PLO 2: Plan a developmentally and culturally appropriate curriculum that is inclusive of activities that facilitate principles and processes of child development to enhance the whole child.
PLO 3: Use appropriate guidance and classroom management techniques.
PLO 4: Create a system of on-going observation, assessment, and documentation.
PLO 5: Design a safe, clean, and healthy learning environment while supporting state and local regulations and accreditation standards to maintain a quality program.
PLO 6: Build ongoing communication and alliances with staff, families, programs, and other community resources.