EDUC 250 - Family/Community Relations in Early Childhood Education

(3 credits)

Approaches the issue of communication with parents and parent involvement as well as the relationship of the early childhood educator (pre k-grade 4) and school program with the community at large. Such topics as parent roles and relationships with educators, social service agencies, clinics and other settings serving physical, mental health and educational needs of families and young children are included. Social and cultural differences and the impact of current parent and family structures will be explored. The course will require observation at sites and/or events where the needs of young children and their families are served. This course partially fulfills the PDE guidelines for Early Childhood Certification candidates. Students will be assigned four hours of field experience in an area school or educational setting. Required clearances will be needed to participate in field experiences.