Early Childhood Development Dr. Belinda Hooper JTCC Educators’ Institute April 4, 2014

Early Childhood Development Birth 5 years old to

The Early Years Matter! Q_x3qE

Why the Early Years Matter Birth only 25% developed BILLIONS of cells that are not yet connected Three years old approximately 1,000 TRILLION connections Five years old 90% developed 90% of brain development occurs BEFORE the child enters the Kindergarten door!

Key to Brain Development Human interactions and relationships

Did You Know? More than 11 million children under the age of 5 are in some type of child care arrangement every week 58% mothers with children under age 1 are in the workforce On average, children spend 36 hours/week in child care; about 1/3 are in multiple child care arrangements due to parent work schedules High quality child care leads to higher academic and cognitive achievement when children are 15 years old

Early Care and Education Professionals The number of preschool teachers in the U.S. is expected to increase 25% between 2010 and Bureau of Labor Statistics

JTCC Early Childhood Development Programs  Associate of Applied Science Degree (A.A.S.) Early Childhood Development Early Childhood Development, Teacher Assistant Specialization  Certificate Child Care  Career Studies Certificate Child Care Management Early Childhood

VCCS and Early Childhood Development Common Curriculum Early Childhood Development Associate of Applied Science Degree Early Childhood Career Studies Certificate

Recruiting Future Early Care and Education Professionals Passion for nurturing and caring for children Good oral and written communication skills Desire to help children learn Desire to increase own knowledge of child development, health and safety, and business operations Self-motivated, energetic, and enthusiastic personality Creative, organized, and committed Ability to patiently interact with children and families Remember…we’re recruiting brain builders!

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