Early Childhood Education State Short Certificate: Infants and Toddlers

Develop the specialized skills to care for the youngest learners (birth to 36 months). This 20-credit certificate combines core early learning knowledge with specific training in infant and toddler care. You will learn to design safe, nurturing environments, build responsive relationships with families, and implement developmentally appropriate care routines. This certificate meets state licensing requirements for a variety of positions and stacks directly into the AAS degree.

Visit the Education Department Website

Program Requirements

ECED& 120 - Early Childhood Practicum
requires clearance using the Portable Background Check required by the Division of Children Youth and Families and managed by Merit.

Some courses require off-campus field experiences, including program observations, site visits, service learning, practicums, or field trips. Students are responsible for arranging their own transportation.

Program Core Courses

Total Program Credits: 20

Program Outcomes

Apply foundational theories of child development to support physical, social, emotional, and cognitive growth.
Apply relationship-based caregiving strategies to support the unique developmental and cultural needs of infants and toddlers in a group setting.
Synthesize the core competencies of the State Early Childhood Initial Certificate.

Program Notes

Not all classes are offered every quarter. Talk to a faculty adviser
You have to earn a grade of 2.0 in each required class to apply it to a certificate or degree
Education coursework older than 5 years may not apply. General education credits will be accepted regardless of age.

General Requirements

Read the Associate Degree and Certificate Requirements.

Internal Coding

Last Updated	Summer 2026
Description	ECE State Infant/Toddler C20
Academic Plan	ECEITC20
CIP Code	13.121