This course is designed to help students gain an understanding of the physical, intellectual, social, emotional and personality growth and development of all children from conception to age nine, including children with special needs. Students will know and understand health and physical activity concepts that enable informed decisions for a healthy and active lifestyle. Activities in the course will focus on health, nutrition, movement skills and strategies for confident participation in physical activity for early childhood educators. Current research and ideas in early childhood development will be used in conjunction with historical approaches that examine growth and development. In addition, the course will help to prepare the aspiring teacher with the appreciation and the ability to utilize creative expression in the pre-kindergarten to fourth grade elementary classroom. The focus will be on planning and adapting engaging learning experiences in movement and physical skills, drama, art, and music. Specific topics that will be explored are integrating the arts across the curriculum, culturally diverse artistic expression, multiple intelligences, playing in the classroom, and fostering creativity in children.

Prerequisite: Candidacy Status