Developing Child and Families - Minor

The Developing Child and Families minor enhances students’ awareness of whole child development while preparing for future interprofessional work with young children (0-8 years of age) and their families in diverse times. The minor offers coursework on multicultural perspectives on whole-child development as well as principles and practices in programs, services, and supports designed for young children and their families. Emphasizing the importance of understanding child development, family dynamics, and the systems that serve children, this minor equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively support young children and collaborate with the professionals and organizations that impact their well-being.

The 18 credit Developing Child and Families minor integrates interprofessional courses to develop a foundation of knowledge for those interested in working with children 0-8 years and their families. Instructional delivery is both lecture based and service-learning.

Program Objectives

• Expand students’ awareness of topics influencing children’s development in multicultural and interprofessional contexts
• To encounter current issues and challenges in early childhood care, programming and education
• To engage in meaningful learning about and within the systems of childhood programs, policies and/or providers