Child Development
28 courses · San Diego Mesa College · 2026-2027 Catalog
Classes: Fall 2026 · Spring 2027
CHIL 100 Principles and Practices of Early Childhood Education
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 48 - 54 hours lecture
This course is an examination of the current early childhood field and workforce needs. Emphasis is placed on underlying theoretical principles and competencies as they relate to becoming highly qualified and successful early childhood educators who are prepared to meet the needs of our diverse society. This course is a foundational course for students majoring in child development and those interested in the field.
CHIL 101 Human Growth and Development
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 48 - 54 hours lecture
This course examines the progression of development in the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional domains and identifies developmental milestones for children from conception through adolescence. Emphasis is on interactions between biological processes and environmental factors. Students observe children, evaluate individual differences, and analyze characteristics of development at various stages according to developmental theories. This course is a core requirement for the State of California Child Development Permit and the State of California Community Care Licensing, Title XXII.
CHIL 111 Curriculum: Music and Movement
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 48 - 54 hours lecture
This course introduces the function of music and fundamental movement skills in early childhood educational programs. Emphasis is placed on the development of music and movement skills, basic teaching and guidance techniques, and selection of appropriate materials and equipment. Other topics include designing and implementing curriculum plans that are appropriate for a variety of age groups and developmental levels. This course is intended for students interested in working in early childhood education, obtaining California child development permits, and transferring to four-year institutions.
CHIL 120 Observation and Assessment in Early Childhood Programs
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 48 - 54 hours lecture
- Prerequisite
- CHIL 101 with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent
This course is an introduction to the appropriate use of assessment and observation tools and provides strategies for documenting young children’s development and learning. Emphasis is placed on the use of data to inform the planning of learning environments and curriculum experiences. Topics include strategies for collaboration with families and professionals. Ten hours of observation in a child care setting is required. This course is designed for students majoring in child development and those interested in the field.
CHIL 121 Curriculum: Art
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 48 - 54 hours lecture
This course introduces the creative process and experience in early childhood education programs. Emphasis is placed on creative development, art curriculum activities, basic teaching skills, guidance techniques, equipment, and materials. Students select appropriate activities for a variety of age and maturity levels based on child development theories and concepts. This course is intended for students majoring in Child Development or others interested in the creative process in early childhood education.
CHIL 130 Introduction to Curriculum
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 48 - 54 hours lecture
- Advisory
- Completion of or concurrent enrollment in: CHIL 101 with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent
This course is an introduction to planning developmentally appropriate curriculum and environments for children birth through age eight. Emphasis is placed on utilizing theories of learning and developmentally appropriate practices to plan environments and curriculum in all content areas. Topics include indoor and outdoor environmental considerations as well as the integration of learning domains. This course is designed for students majoring in child development and those interested in the field.
CHIL 131 Curriculum: Language/Science
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 48 - 54 hours lecture
This course is an introductory study of the function of language, math, and science learning in early childhood educational programs. Emphasis is placed on the development of language and science curriculum activities, basic teaching skills, guidance techniques, equipment, and materials. Students select appropriate activities for a variety of age groups and maturity levels based on child development theories and concepts. This course is designed for Child Development majors and may be used to partially fulfill requirements for Title 22 licensing and child development permits.
CHIL 141 The Child, Family, and Community
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 48 - 54 hours lecture
This course is the study of the processes of socialization focusing on the interrelationship of family, school, and community. This course examines the influence of multiple societal contexts and explores the role of collaboration between family, community, and schools in supporting children’s development, birth through adolescence. This course is a core requirement for California Child Development teacher/director center permits as well as for the State of California Department of Community Care Title 22 licensing childcare centers requirements. This course is designed for all students interested in child development and multi-cultural and behavioral studies.
CHIL 150 Teaching in a Diverse Society
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 48 - 54 hours lecture
This course examines both historical and current perspectives of diversity and inclusion and the impact of systemic societal influences on development and learning. Emphasis is placed on incorporating strategies for developmental, cultural, and linguistically appropriate anti-bias curriculum as well as approaches to promote inclusive and anti-racist classroom communities. Topics include the influence of the student's own culture and life experiences on teaching and interactions with children and families. This course is designed for students majoring in child development and those interested in the field.
CHIL 151 Program Planning
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 48 - 54 hours lecture
- Prerequisite
- CHIL 101 with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent and CHIL 160 with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent and CHIL 111 with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent or CHIL 121 with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent or CHIL 131 with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent or CHIL 133 with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent or CHIL 135 with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent
- Corequisite
- CHIL 270 or CHIL 275
- Advisory
- ENGL C1000 with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent
This course focuses on planning the preschool learning environment to promote optimal development. Emphasis is placed on curriculum planning, guidance, safety, record keeping, observation techniques, project planning, and classroom management. Students enrolled in this course must be concurrently working in a preschool learning environment under the supervision of a person holding a Child Development Master Teacher Permit or the equivalent. This course is intended for students pursuing teaching careers in early care and education settings and partially fulfills State of California Permit and Title 22 teacher requirements.
CHIL 155 Supervised Field Study Seminar
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 16 - 18 hours lecture
- Corequisite
- CHIL 151 and CHIL 270
This seminar course provides students with the opportunity to critically reflect on their student teaching fieldwork in order to effectively apply the principles and best practices of early care and education programs to their on-site work experience. This course is intended for students seeking teaching positions in early care and education settings and partially fulfills State of California Permit and Title 22 teacher requirements.
CHIL 161 Observations and Issues in Child Development
- Units
- 2
- Hours
- 16 - 18 hours lecture/48-54 hours lab
This course explores current issues in child development and how these issues influence both the child and family. The course emphasizes effective communication skills, positive guidance techniques, kindergarten readiness skills, and appropriate classroom activities. It is intended for students majoring in child development and parents of children enrolled in the campus child development center. It partially fulfills the specialization requirements for the State of California Master Teacher Permit.
CHIL 163 Field Experience in Child Guidance Techniques for Early Childhood Classrooms
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 32 - 36 hours lecture/48-54 hours lab
- Prerequisite
- CHIL 101 with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent and CHIL 141 with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent
This course explores guidance techniques for working with children from birth to age eight in early education settings. Emphasis is placed on the application of social and emotional strategies, developmentally appropriate practices, supportive environmental design, and the principles of professional ethics and diversity in working with children and families. Observation techniques and guided practice are emphasized within a three hour weekly lab experience. This course is intended for students who plan careers in early childhood and family support programs.
CHIL 165 Children With Special Needs
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 48 - 54 hours lecture
This course is a survey of education for children with special needs. Emphasis is placed on the types and characteristics of special needs as well as on the methods for integrating children with special needs into inclusive educational settings. Topics include the history of special education legislation, current educational compliance requirements and community resources available to parents, teachers and other professionals. This course is designed for professionals and parents who work with children with special needs. This course partially fulfills the specialization requirement for the State of California Master Teacher Permit.
CHIL 166 Curriculum for Diverse Learners
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 48 - 54 hours lecture
This course is an in-depth study of inclusive environments, guidance techniques, and curriculum planning strategies that are designed to meet the needs of the diverse children and families in our current society. Emphasis is placed on cognitive, physical, social- emotional, cultural, and linguistic diversity, and how well-designed environments, intentionally planned curriculum, and supportive behavioral strategies work together to provide a classroom that is welcoming and ensures that all children and families in the program thrive. This course is designed for parents, teachers, nurses, social workers, and paraprofessionals employed in schools and early childhood programs. This course partially meets the specialization requirements for the Master Teacher Permit.
CHIL 175 Infant-Toddler Growth and Development
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 48 - 54 hours lecture
This course examines the physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development of the infant and toddler and appropriate strategies to support this development. Emphasis is placed on culturally responsive techniques that support diverse family practices and connections. Appropriate observations and visitations to the community are required. This course meets State of California Title 22 licensing regulations for teachers in infant-toddler settings and fulfills the infant-toddler specialization requirement for the State of California Master Teacher Permit when taken in addition to CHIL 176. It is intended for students majoring in child development, parents, or those interested in infant-toddler care.
CHIL 176 Infant and Toddler Care and Curriculum
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 48 - 54 hours lecture
A study of research-based approaches related to the care and education of infants and toddlers in group settings. Examines theories of learning and development, regulations, and essential practices that lead to quality care and developmentally appropriate curriculum and environments for children from birth to 36 months. Emphasizes strategies to promote healthy relationships in the care and education of infants and toddlers. This course meets State of California Title 22 licensing regulations for teachers in infant-toddler settings and fulfills the infant-toddler specialization requirement for the State of California Master Teacher Permit when taken in addition to CHIL 175. It is intended for students majoring in child development, parents, or those interested in infant-toddler care.
CHIL 180 Nutrition, Health, and Safety for Children
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 48 - 54 hours lecture
This course is a survey of the laws, regulations, standards, policies, procedures, and best practices related to health, safety, and nutrition in care and education settings for children birth through middle childhood. Emphasis is placed on the teacher’s role in prevention strategies, nutrition and meal planning, integrating health safety and nutrition experiences into daily routines, and overall risk management. This course is designed for students majoring in child development and those interested in the field.
CHIL 202 Administration of Early Childhood Programs
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 48 - 54 hours lecture
- Prerequisite
- CHIL 101 with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent and CHIL 141 with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent
- Advisory
- CHIL 111 with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent and CHIL 121 with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent or CHIL 131 with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent
This course is an overview of early childhood education program administration. Topics include theoretical perspectives on early childhood education, licensing regulations, funding sources, budgetary considerations, personnel management, curriculum development, and teacher selection. The course meets State of California Title 22 licensing regulations for site supervisors. It also partially fulfills State of California matrix requirements for Program Director and Site Supervisor Permits. This course is intended for anyone seeking a position as a site supervisor or center director.
CHIL 210 Supervision of Early Childhood Programs
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 48 - 54 hours lecture
- Prerequisite
- CHIL 141 with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent and CHIL 151 with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent
This course is a study of the supervisory tools and techniques required to organize and evaluate early childhood programs. Emphasis is placed on supervisory functions, in-service staff training, educational philosophies, program and staff evaluation, models of parent education and involvement, and supportive services. This course is designed for students who intend to go into supervisory positions in early childhood education. It partially fulfills the State of California Child Development Permit Matrix requirement for supervisors and directors and also meets the State of California Title 22 licensing regulations for directors.
CHIL 215 Adult Supervision and Mentoring in Early Childhood Settings
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 48 - 54 hours lecture
- Prerequisite
- CHIL 151 with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent
This course is a study of the methods and principles of supervising adults in early childhood settings. Students study effective models for guiding and evaluating adults, developing positive communication skills and recognizing the role of mentors in teaching environments. This course is designed for students who supervise other adults in classrooms while simultaneously providing appropriate settings for young children. It partially meets the requirements for the Master Teacher Permit, Site Supervisor, and Program Director permits issued by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing.
CHIL 270 Work Experience
- Units
- 1-4
- Hours
- 54 - 216 hours other
This course is for Child Development students to acquire on-the-job training within an early care and education facility and partially fulfills State of California Permit and Title 22 teacher requirements. One unit of credit may be earned for every 54 hours of work experience. A maximum of fourteen credit hours for all work experience subject areas may be earned during one enrollment period.
CHIL 275 Supervised Field Study
- Units
- 1-3
- Hours
- 48-162 hours other
- Prerequisite
- CHIL 120 with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent or CHIL 130 with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent
This directed field study course provides students with an opportunity to apply classroom information in a practical setting with supervision from faculty as well as fieldsite supervisors. This course is intended for students who plan to teach or supervise in early childhood settings. It partially fulfills Title 22 and the State of California Child Development Permit experience requirement.
CHIL 290 Independent Study
- Units
- 1-3
- Hours
- 48-162 hours other
This course is for students who wish to conduct additional research, a special project or learning activities in the field of child development. It is not intended to replace an existing course in the discipline. In this course students have a written contract with their instructor for activities such as: preparing problem analyses, engaging in primary research, preparing reports, and meeting with the instructor at specific intervals.
CHIL 291A Child Development Center Practicum
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 48-54 hours lab
This course provides directed laboratory experience in the campus Child Development Center. Students become familiar with the operating policies and procedures of a preschool program and observe and access the development of children as they reference the participant handbook and describe the policies of the campus lab. This course may be used toward the experience component for the State of California Child Development Permit. It is intended for students who plan careers in early childhood and family support programs and for parents who seek practical experience in guiding and teaching children.
CHIL 291B Child Development Center Practicum
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 48-54 hours lab
This course provides directed laboratory experience in the campus Child Development Center. Students examine children's development, their safety, health, and their nutritional needs in a preschool setting with an emphasis on implementation with young children. This course may be used toward the experience component for the State of California Child Development Permit and toward the Health and Safety training requirements for Title 22. It is intended for students who plan careers in early childhood education and family support programs and for parents who seek practical experience in guiding and teaching children.
CHIL 291C Child Development Center Practicum
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 48-54 hours lab
This course provides directed laboratory experience in the campus Child Development Center. Emphasis is placed on early education teaching techniques and selection of curriculum activities for children that are developmentally appropriate. This course may be used toward the experience component for the State of California Child Development Permit. It is intended for students who plan careers in early childhood and family support programs and for parents who seek practical experience in guiding and teaching children.
CHIL 291D Child Development Center Practicum
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 48-54 hours lab
This course provides directed laboratory experience in the campus Child Development Center. Students examine effective routines and transitional activities in the organization and structure of an early child development setting. The class emphasizes positive guidance techniques for young children, and the selection of equipment and materials for young children that are developmentally age appropriate. This course may be used toward the field experience component for the State of California Child Development Permit. It is intended for students who plan careers in early childhood and family support programs and for parents who seek practical experience in guiding and teaching children.