State Initial Early Childhood Education Certificate of Completion

The Initial State Certificate (Early Childhood Education) is designed to meet the Washington State Career Lattice guidelines for teacher assistants in early childhood, early elementary, special education or other settings caring for and educating young children. Classes help adults increase their understanding of the physical, intellectual, emotional and social development of children and to apply developmentally appropriate guidance and curriculum methods to meet the individual and group needs of children and their families. Emphasis is placed on active student involvement, observation, participation, and practical experience. Credits earned may be applied to the 20 credit Certificates of Specialization, 47 credit Early Childhood Education State Certificate and the 90 credit Early Childhood Education, AAS  and Early Childhood Education, AAS-T .

Learning Outcomes

Certificate recipients should possess the skills & abilities described below:

• Connect with children and families by knowing, understanding, and using positive relationships and supportive interactions as the foundation for their work with young children.
• Identify, explain, and apply appropriate guidance techniques and theories as an important classroom management tool.
• Identify, explain, and apply nutrition, health and safety practices and procedures appropriate for use when teaching young children.
• Be engaged as members of the Early Childhood profession and use ethical guidelines and other professional standards related to early childhood practice.

Certificate Requirement

All ECED or EDUC coursework required for any ELTE Certificate or Degree must be completed with a minimum grade of “C” (2.0) or better.