About
An early childhood caregiver is knowledgeable in the growth and development of infants and toddlers, as well as young children, allowing opportunities and experiences for infants and young children that will allow for them to navigate the world around them and move to new levels of thinking and understanding about themselves. This program provides students to learn and apply the challenging responsibility to set up a supportive environment for a group of toddlers or preschoolers, develop a relationship with each one, and meet their needs as individuals and as a group is a core understanding in early childhood. Children’s learning experiences during this period in their lives allow for successful outcomes later in life.
Iowa Central’s Early Childhood Education program is designed for students planning to work with children in a preschool, infant/toddler, family, day care, or home visitor setting. It is a one-year diploma with the option of obtaining Paraeducator certification with two additional courses (see Notes).
Organization
Iowa Central Community College - Main Campus
Iowa Central Community College's Fort Dodge campus, located in Iowa, is a vibrant hub of academic excellence and community engagement. As a public, two-year institution established in 1966 from the merger of three junior colleges, it offers a robust selection of over 100 programs ranging from career-focused associate degrees to certificates designed for seamless transfer to four-year universities 15. The campus supports a diverse student body with services including academic counseling, employment services, and recognition of life experiences for credit 4.
Beyond academics, students thrive in a lively campus environment with numerous clubs, organizations, and an active athletics program that boasts several national titles 1. Located in a rural setting, Iowa Central’s Fort Dodge campus not only emphasizes affordability and accessibility but also offers a unique, serene learning atmosphere that enhances students' education experience 3. The college's commitment to delivering quality education and fostering a supportive community makes it a key educational institution within Iowa 15.