Early Care and Education personnel nurture and teach children of all ages in child care centers, nursery schools, preschools, public schools, private households, family child care homes, and before- and after-school programs. They are charged to help children explore their interests, develop their talents and independence, build self-esteem and learn how to behave with others primarily using a play-centered curriculum. They capitalize on children’s play to further language development and introduce scientific and mathematical concepts. Specific emphasis is given to serving an ever-expanding multicultural and inclusive population. 

At Trenholm State Technical College, the student may elect to study either as a part- or full-time student with classes offered in a flexible teaching schedule. Trenholm Tech students will utilize the community center sites which offer practical laboratory “hands-on” working experience with preschool children.  Students pursuing the Child Development Associate Credential are prepared for the final assessment of the CDA credential.  The CDA credential is not awarded through the school but actual preparation for the credentialing process is available through the program.

Occupational Choices

Child care workers held about 1.3 million jobs in 2004. Many worked part-time. About 1 out of 3 child care workers were self-employed; most of these were family child care providers.  Seventeen percent of all child care workers are found in child day care services, and about 21 percent work for private households. The remainder worked primarily in local government educational services; nursing and residential care facilities; religious organizations; amusement and recreation industries; private educational services; civic and social organizations; individual and family services; and local government, excluding education and hospitals. 

Average Full-Time Wage

Pay depends on the educational attainment of the worker and the type of establishment. Although the pay generally is very low, more education usually means higher earnings. Median hourly earnings of wage and salary child care workers were $8.06 in May 2004. The middle 50 percent earned between $6.75 and $10.01. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $5.90, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $12.34.* 

Additional Requirements

Early Care and Education Program participants must meet the following criteria:

Student must hold a High School diploma or GED.

Student must be at least 18 years of age.

Student must meet all criteria of the State Department of Human Resources for persons working with children to include completing a health card showing results of tuberculosis tests and a National Safety background check.

Awards

• Associate Degree in Early Care and Education 

• Certificate in Early Care and Education 

Estimated Length & Cost*

Additional Charges based on Program Acceptance:

• Uniform/Name Badge $25.00
• Background Check $50.00
• Insurance/annual $15.50

* Tax not included.  Prices are subject to change without prior notice; cost of books may vary considerably among suppliers.  The length of the program is based on full-time status of 12-15 credit hours per term.  Enrollment in transitional level general education courses will alter the length of the program.

 *Data obtained from the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2006-2007.