Course Descriptions

Child Development - CD
Course Classification

Courses numbered 1-49 — are baccalaureate level (transfer) courses. Courses thus numbered are transferable to four- year institutions. Agriculture courses are designed to parallel the work taught in similar courses at California Polytechnic State University or at California State University, Fresno but may not carry the same number.

Courses numbered 50-99 — are associate degree level courses. Courses thus numbered are primarily for the student who does not plan to continue his/her education beyond the community college level; however, occupational education courses may transfer according to articulation agreements. Complete information on articulation is available through the Counseling Center.

Courses Numbered 100-201 — are non-transfer and are non-degree applicable; they are skill building or remedial.

Abbreviations for Degree, Non-Degree, and Transfer Courses

The following abbreviations designate degree applicable, transfer, and non-degree applicable courses:
(AA) Associate Degree
(CSU) Transferable to California State University System
(UC) Transferable to University of California System
(NDA) Non-Degree Applicable

  • CD-002
  • Teaching in a Diverse Society
  • Credit(s) 3

Teaching in a Diverse Society
CD 002 will explore the development of social identities in diverse societies including the theoretical and the practical implications. Various classroom strategies will be presented emphasizing culturally and linguistically appropriate anti-bias approaches supporting all children in becoming competent members of a diverse society. The course includes discussions and self-examination related to social identity, stereotypes and bias, social and educational access, media, and schooling.

Class Hours:
54 Lecture
Advisory(s):
ENG 051A
Transfers to:
UC/CSU
C-ID:
ECE 230
  • CD-003
  • Observation and Assessment
  • Credit(s) 3

Observation and Assessment
CD 003 provides experiences using observation and assessment strategies to document children's growth and development. Various scientific techniques will be introduced and utilized to benefit the child, the environmental situations, family and teacher interaction, and/or successful referrals to other professionals focusing on children.

Class Hours:
54 Lecture
Advisory(s):
ENG 051A
Transfers to:
CSU
C-ID:
ECE 200
  • CD-004
  • Parenting
  • Credit(s) 3

Parenting
CD 004 offers parents and teachers information for understanding parent-child relationships. Students will explore the use of positive parenting skills, assess socially acceptable family values, and learn about child development and how it plays a direct part in parenting the child.

Class Hours:
54 Lecture
Advisory(s):
ENG 051A
Transfers to:
CSU
  • CD-005
  • Child Development
  • Credit(s) 3

Child Development
CD 005 is the study of the typical and atypical growth and development of the child from conception through adolescence, with a concentration on the first six years of life. Issues concerning the physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development of the child will be studied from relevant theoretical positions and investigative research methodologies. There will be an emphasis on interactions between maturational processes and environmental factors. Students will be involved in observing, interviewing, evaluating, and applying relevant developmental evaluations.

Class Hours:
54 Lecture
Advisory(s):
ENG 051A
Transfers to:
UC/CSU
C-ID:
CDEV 100
  • CD-006
  • Child and Adolescent Developme
  • Credit(s) 3

Child and Adolescent Development
CD 006 is the study of typical and atypical growth and development of the adolescence, with a concentration on the adolescent ages 11 through 18 years. Issues concerning the physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development of the adolescent will be studied from relevant theoretical positions and investigative research methodologies. There will be an emphasis on interactions between maturational processes and environmental factors. Students will observe, interview, evaluate, and apply relevant developmental evaluations.

Class Hours:
54 Lecture
Advisory(s):
ENG 051A
Transfers to:
UC/CSU
  • CD-010
  • Child, Family and Society
  • Credit(s) 3

Child, Family and Society
CD 010 is an examination of the developing child in a societal context focusing on the interrelationship of family, school and community, along with emphasis on historical and socio-cultural factors. The processes of socialization and identity development will be highlighted, showing the importance of respectful, reciprocal relationships that support and empower families. Students are required to accomplish 12 hours of volunteer service in their community.

Class Hours:
54 Lecture
Advisory(s):
ENG 051A
Transfers to:
UC/CSU
C-ID:
CDEV 110
  • CD-012A
  • Principles & Practices of ECE
  • Credit(s) 3

Principles & Practices of Early Childhood Education
CD 012A includes an examination of theoretical principles of developmental practices as applied to programs, environments, teacher relationships, constructive adult-child interactions, curriculum planning, and teaching strategies supporting the physical, emotional, social, and cognitive development of young children. Included in this course is information on the early history of early childhood programs, professional practices promoting advocacy, ethics and professional identity.

Class Hours:
54 Lecture
Advisory(s):
ENG 051A
Transfers to:
CSU
C-ID:
ECE 120
  • CD-012B
  • Principles & Practices of ECE
  • Credit(s) 3

Principles and Practices of Early Childhood Education Field Work
CD 012B offers an opportunity to demonstrate developmentally appropriate early childhood teaching competencies under guided supervision. Students will utilize practical classroom experiences to make connections between theory and practice, to develop professional behaviors, and build a comprehensive understanding of children and families. Students will be expanding their knowledge of curriculum content by designing, implementing, and evaluating their teaching experiences and the value of their interactions used in the classroom and with the children involved. Both positive and negative experiences will be evaluated and will be used for improvement and validation.

Class Hours:
18 Lecture | 108 Laboratory
Prerequisite(s):
CD-005, CD-010, CD-012A, and CD-016
Transfers to:
CSU
C-ID:
ECE 210
  • CD-014A
  • Adm. & Superv. of Child. Prgrm
  • Credit(s) 3

Administration and Supervision of Children's Programs
CD 014A is designed for students that have a foundation in child development and the desire to be involved in the administration of children's programs as a director and/or supervisor. The course will focus on state regulations governing child development programs and its application to children's programs. Information pertaining to staffing, educational philosophies, program planning, health, safety and nutrition issues, child abuse reporting, budget development, and successful business practices will be addressed.

Class Hours:
54 Lecture
Advisory(s):
ENG 051A
Transfers to:
CSU
  • CD-014B
  • Adm. & Superv. of Child. Pgrm
  • Credit(s) 3

Administration and Supervision of Children's Programs Fieldwork
CD 014B is a course designed for students that have a firm foundation in child development and have an interest in becoming an administrator of a children's program. This course offers the student an opportunity to design and demonstrate their writing and computer abilities as reflected in assigned projects such as personal portfolios, newsletters, parent education presentations, staff in-services, school policy development, and other related assignments. In addition, this course involves the application of administrative knowledge as discussed in Child Development 014A. Students will be given the opportunity to gain administrative experiences in an appropriate community-based children's program.

Class Hours:
36 Lecture | 54 Laboratory
Advisory(s):
ENG 051A
Transfers to:
CSU
  • CD-015
  • Lit. & Lang Arts for Yng Child
  • Credit(s) 3

Literature and Language Arts for Young Children
CD 015 is the study of age-appropriate literature for young children with an emphasis placed on the selection, evaluation and practice of the literature discussed. Students will be introduced to information on emerging literacy and language development. Appropriate language art skills for young children are included, as well as multicultural and gender identity information as it pertains to children's literature.

Class Hours:
54 Lecture
Advisory(s):
ENG 051A
Transfers to:
UC/CSU
  • CD-015X
  • Occupational Work Experience
  • Credit(s) 1 - 8

Occupational Work Experience
Cooperative Work Experience Education (CWEE) develops skills and knowledge by integrating classroom study with planned, supervised work experience. It is based on the principle that well-educated individuals develop most effectively through an educational plan that incorporates work experience. Through these structured experiences, the students enrich their college studies, which enhance their total development. Occupational Work Experience is supervised employment which is intended to assist students in acquiring desirable work habits, attitudes, and career awareness in the field of the student's major. Students may earn up to 8 units per semester for a maximum of 16 total units. Credits are awarded for paid or voluntary work. For every 75 hours of paid work completed within the semester, 1 unit of credit is awarded. For every 60 hours of volunteer work completed within the semester, 1 unit of credit is awarded. Occupational Work Experience credits are counted as electives toward an Associate's Degree at West Hills College Coalinga and are transferable to four year universities (for specific transfer eligibility, please contact a counselor or an advisor).

Class Hours:
Work Experience
Transfers to:
CSU
  • CD-016
  • Introduction to Curriculum
  • Credit(s) 3

Introduction to Curriculum
CD 016 presents an overview of knowledge and skills related to providing developmentally appropriate curriculum and environments for young children under the age of six. Content of course will emphasize information on the role of play and its importance in the learning process of young children and other content areas, including but not limited to, language and literacy, social and emotional learning, sensory learning, the performing arts, math and science. Students will use their observational and assessment skills to evaluate the outcomes of curriculum planning.

Class Hours:
54 Lecture
Advisory(s):
ENG 051A
Transfers to:
CSU
C-ID:
ECE 130
  • CD-017A
  • Sex Ed for Teach & Parents of
  • Credit(s) 1

Sex Education for Parents and Teachers
CD 017A is designed for teachers and parents of children. This course provides basic sex education, which includes the stages of sexual development from prenatal development through adolescence, useful communication skills for adults when talking to children about sexual development and relationships, and the influences of media upon children as it pertains to sexuality.

Class Hours:
18 Lecture
Advisory(s):
ENG 051A
Transfers to:
CSU
  • CD-017B
  • Child Abuse Recogn & Prevent.
  • Credit(s) 1

Child Abuse Recognition and Prevention
CD 017B provides information concerning child abuse recognition and prevention. The types of abuse and the psychological impact of abuse on young children are presented. Mandated reporting for educators and the California Penal Code, as it pertains to child abuse, are addressed.

Class Hours:
18 Lecture
Advisory(s):
ENG 051A
Transfers to:
CSU
  • CD-017C
  • Single Parenting
  • Credit(s) 1

Single Parenting
CD 017C is designed for single parents and for teachers working with single parents. Information in this course will include the effects of divorce on children, child custody issues, and the family dynamics of the single-parent family.

Class Hours:
18 Lecture
Advisory(s):
ENG 051A
Transfers to:
CSU
  • CD-018
  • Health, Safety and Nutrition
  • Credit(s) 3

Health, Safety and Nutrition
CD 018 provides basic information on the laws, regulations, standards, policies, and procedures and early childhood curriculum related to child health, safety, and nutrition. The key components that ensure physical health, mental health, and safety for both children and staff will be identified along with the importance of collaboration with families and health professionals. Emphasis will be on integrating the concepts into everyday planning and program development for all children.

Class Hours:
54 Lecture
Advisory(s):
ENG 051A
Transfers to:
CSU
C-ID:
ECE 220
  • CD-021
  • Infant & Toddler Caregiving
  • Credit(s) 3

Infant and Toddler Caregiving
CD 021 is an overview of infant and toddler development, including physical growth, motor skills, perception, cognition, social skills, and personality. Applied developmental knowledge will be directed to the study of appropriate equipment, curriculum content, and health, safety, and nutritional issues. Quality infant and toddler environments will be addressed.

Class Hours:
54 Lecture
Advisory(s):
ENG 051A
Transfers to:
CSU
  • CD-022
  • Superv. Adults Work in Child P
  • Credit(s) 2

Supervising Adults Working in Children's Programs
CD 022 provides information about the issues and methods of working with staff, adult volunteers, parents and other adults working in publicly funded, non-profit and private children's programs. This course is required by the State of California Commission for Teacher Preparation and Licensing of all master teachers, site supervisors, and program directors that are employed in publicly funded children's programs.

Class Hours:
36 Lecture
Advisory(s):
ENG 051A
Transfers to:
CSU
  • CD-023
  • Domestic Violence Recog. & Pre
  • Credit(s) 1

Domestic Violence Recognition and Prevention
CD 023 addresses the recognition of domestic violence in families, its effects upon victims and children, and how knowledge of the subject matter provides a prevention platform.

Class Hours:
18 Lecture
Advisory(s):
ENG 051A
Transfers to:
CSU
  • CD-024
  • School-Age Development
  • Credit(s) 3

School-Age Development
CD 024 is the study of the growth and development of the school-age child, with a concentration on the years between six through adolescence. Issues concerning the physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development of the school-age child will be studied from relevant theoretical positions.

Class Hours:
54 Lecture
Advisory(s):
ENG 051A
Transfers to:
UC/CSU
  • CD-025
  • School-Age Curriculum
  • Credit(s) 3

School-Age Curriculum
CD 025 provides basic information pertaining to school-age curriculum. Emphasis is on understanding and planning curriculum for the school-age child that includes assessing, implementing and evaluating programs. Other topics discussed include scheduling, policies, indoor/outdoor environments, special needs, and cultural issues.

Class Hours:
54 Lecture
Advisory(s):
ENG 051A
Transfers to:
CSU
  • CD-026A
  • Found of School-Age Child Care
  • Credit(s) 1

Foundation of School-Age Child Care
CD 026A provides basic information pertaining to the foundations of a school-age child program. Emphasis is on the growing field of school-age care, characteristics, and traits of school-age children, developing and implementing program rules, planning program activities, and handling conflicts among school-age children.

Class Hours:
18 Lecture
Advisory(s):
ENG 051A
Transfers to:
CSU
  • CD-026B
  • Quality School-Age Care
  • Credit(s) 1

Quality School-Age Care
CD 026B provides basic information pertaining to school-age program standards and quality care. Emphasis is on understanding quality school-age care by evaluating human relationships, indoor and outdoor environments, daily activities, safety and health issues, and administration.

Class Hours:
18 Lecture
Advisory(s):
ENG 051A
Transfers to:
CSU
  • CD-026C
  • School-Age Sports and Act.
  • Credit(s) 1

School-Age Sports and Activities
CD 026C is the study of school-age sports and activities and how they relate to the growth of school-age children. The student will receive basic information on planning and implementing active and quiet times, art and crafts, puppets, music and movement, construction and carpentry, nutrition and cooking, activities with water, and gardening.

Class Hours:
18 Lecture
Advisory(s):
ENG 051A
Transfers to:
CSU