The Week of the Young Child™ is an annual celebration sponsored by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). The purpose of the Week of the Young Child™ is to focus public attention on the needs of young children and their families and to recognize the early childhood programs and services that meet those needs. The week of THE YOUNG CHILD takes place each April.

http://www.naeyc.org 

 Early Childhood Education at Nashoba Valley Technical High School 

Program Description: 

 The Early Childhood Education program at NVTHS prepares students to be competent Early Childhood Education professionals.  Students will learn child growth and development and how to incorporate materials and activities that are developmentally and interest appropriate.  Students will understand the basic responsibilities of child care, the importance of communication with others, and the need to project a professional attitude.  They will gain an understanding of prenatal care, birth and developmental milestones in the early years of life.  Areas that are addressed include: pysical, cognitive, emotional and social development, an overview of the major Theorists and theories in ECE, writing and implementing a basic lesson plan, emergent curriculum, observation as an assessment tool, different types of ECE programs, and an understanding of professional organizations, such as the NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children).

 Theory and practical experience combine to make up the Early Childhood Education program experience at NVTHS.  The students are able to gain experience in our on-campus lab school.

 Students receive training and a certificate in:

Students in the Early Childhood Education program will receive a MA Preschool Teaching License and an Infant/Toddler MA Teaching License from the MA Department of Early Education and Care upon completion of 150 hours working with Preschool children and 150 hours working with Infants and Toddlers.  Students will work in our own Child Learning Center, NASHOBA VALLEY EARLY LEARNING CENTER.

Juniors and Seniors are able to go on co-operative work expereinces in area child care centers

 The Early Childhood Education program here at Nashoba Valley Technical High School has Articulation Agreements with several area colleges:

1. Middlesex Community College
2. Mount Wachusett Community College
3. Quinsigamond Community College
4. Mass Bay Community College
5. Northern Essex Community College

All Early Childhood Education students will have membership in the following National Organization:

Future Educators of America

Juniors and Seniors are able to work toward their Early Childhood Education National Certification, the CDA ( Child Development Associate credential).