State Early Childhood Education Certificate of Achievement

The State Early Childhood Education Certificate 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 90 credit Early Childhood Education, AAS  degree.

Learning Outcomes

Certificate recipients should possess the skills & abilities described below:

• Build and value diverse family and community relationships and support by demonstrating their understanding of the importance and complex characteristics of children’s families and communities.
• 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.
• Use developmentally effective approaches by knowing, understanding, and using a wide array of approaches, strategies, and tools to positively influence children’s development and learning.
• Utilize content knowledge in early education by applying the essential concepts, inquiry tools, and academic subjects; and use resources to deepen their understanding.
• 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.
• Write clearly and effectively for varied audiences and purposes.
• Use, analyze and draw inferences from numerical and symbolic modes of communication.
• 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.