Child Development and Education 

Coursework in the Child Development and Education Department emphasizes the theoretical and practical knowledge needed for working with culturally diverse children from birth through age eight. The department offers a variety of certificates and degrees depending on age groups and needs of children. The various certificate and degree programs provide developmentally-appropriate based knowledge and courses designed to teach students how to provide competent care and interactions for children.

College students in our Child Development and Education program will experience a comprehensive program that prepares them to work with young children, birth to age 8.  Our courses reflect the idea that children build knowledge through the experience of play.  We emphasize the importance of understanding how children develop at different ages and the cultural, linguistic, and social influences that shape them.  At the core of working with young children and their families is a positive and reciprocal relationship.  Within that relationship, we come to see the child as a unique individual with unique needs and interests, which is the foundation of an effective early childhood professional.

Throughout the program, students will learn about developmentally appropriate practices, plan open-ended creative experiences, observe and document children’s play, and implement a whole curriculum based on the interests and needs of the children with whom they work.  Another important aspect of working effectively with children and families is the practice of anti-bias curriculum.  Students will learn specific practices to ensure inclusiveness for all children and their families.

Our college classes require a high level of rigor, which prepares students to enter the workforce and collaborate with colleagues.  The faculty work closely with students and mentors them throughout the program.

Careers related to Child Development and Education
The following are possible careers which relate to working with young children and supporting families:

• Infant-toddler or preschool teacher, private or public childcare programs
• Transitional kindergarten or early elementary school teacher
• Special needs aide/paraprofessional, or special education teacher in a preschool
• Behavior Interventionist
• Preschool Program Director or Site Supervisor
• Department of Education –Quality Start OC
• Zero to Three – Field Specialist provides training and assistance to Head Start/Early Head Start programs
• Child Life Specialist – works with children in a hospital setting
• College instructor
• Leader in recreation programs
• Before and after school care
• Education Coordinator
• Parent Educator and/or Parent-Child Educator
• Children’s Home Society – Resource and referral specialist
• Community Care Licensing Analyst
• Speech & Language Pathologist/Assistant

Department Contact Information

Laurie Campbell, Program Coordinator and Professor of Child Development and Education
lcampbell@occ.cccd.edu 

Jenny Chaiyakal, Professor of Child Development and Education
Jchaiyakal@occ.cccd.edu 

Jeanette Ellis, Professor of Child Development and Education
jellis@occ.cccd.edu 

Kara Jones, Instructor of Child Development and Education
kjones68@occ.cccd.edu 

Child Development and Education department website

Credit Courses