Infant/Toddler Specialist
Certificate of Proficiency Child Development · Merritt College · 2026-2027 Catalog
Program Description
The Infant/Toddler Specialist Certificate of Proficiency program is designed to prepare students for work in public or private infant/toddler programs. This specialization option under the Child Development Department focuses on skills needed to work in infant/toddler settings. This program can be completed within one year, culminating in a Certificate of Proficiency upon satisfactory completion of all requirements. The Certificate of Proficiency is not indicated on the student's transcript.
Career Opportunities
Career opportunities include Infant/Toddler teacher, owner/director of Family Child Care business, Home Visitor with Early Headstart programs.
Learning Outcome(s)
- Evaluate individual differences and the special needs of exceptional children under age three
- Create a responsive environment and developmentally and culturally appropriate curriculum that supports infant-toddler learning in the four domains of development.
- Practice involving families in all aspects of the program, and demonstrate ability to communicate and work with families in respectful ways.
- Summarize the developmental sequence of infant and toddler growth and development and the methods of facilitating growth.