School-Age Care Specialization

The Merced College Child Development Department offers students classes and training to meet California requirements for credentials and licenses, as well as an Associate of Arts in Child Development (AA) degree and an Associate in Science in Early Childhood Education for Transfer (AS-T in ECE) degree. Preparation includes transfer level courses with several that meet general education requirements and Certificates of Achievement. Throughout all courses, students are trained culturally sensitive and family-focused perspectives that emphasize the value of individual differences in your children. The Child Development Department works closely with many community programs to meet the specific needs of the early care and education workforce.

Students are strongly encouraged to transfer to a 4-year college or university. In several courses, students are given information about pursuing their bachelor, masters, and doctorate degrees. In particular classes, information, materials, and workshops on the California Teaching Credential Child Development Permit Matrix are shared. The permit matrix covers entry level positions through a master’s degree option. To increase the likelihood that students will transfer, students are required to develop an education plan with a counselor. Increasing numbers of our students are transferring to pursue degrees in child development, liberal studies, and other related fields.

Students must take the following classes designated below to complete a 32 unit certificate of Achievement.

Program Student Learning Outcomes

A. Design and analyze theme based activities for children in grades K-8, recognize the curriculum implications for behavior management, including the indoor and outdoor environment, and apply guidance techniques for school-age children.

B. Distinguish characteristics of the school-age care profession and professional.

C. Self-assess strengths and weaknesses of a school-age care provider, and understand the role in partnerships with the community and families of school-age children.

D. Determine current issues facing school-age children and apply school-age theories to school-age development, including physical, cognitive, and psychosocial development, and observe children in three age groups, 5-7, 8-10, and 11-13 years old.

Program Requirements:

Program Core: (34 Units)