State Short Certificate of Specialization - General Certificate of Accomplishment

The State Short Early Childhood Education Certificate of Specialization – General is designed to meet the Washington State Career Lattice guidelines for people interested in becoming teacher assistants in early childhood, early elementary, special education, or other settings caring for and educating young children. Emphasis is placed on active student involvement, observation, participation, and practical experience. 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. Credits earned may be applied to the 47-credit State Early Childhood Education 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:

• Observe, document and assess young children and use systematic observations, documentation, and other effective assessment strategies in a responsible way, in partnership with families and other professionals, to positively influence children’s development.
• 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.