CTE - Child Development

Child Development and Family Studies“Our greatest natural resource is in the minds of our children.” - Walt Disney.Earning a certificate or degree in Child Development and Family Studies is the best way to show your professionalism and commitment to your career and the children and families in your care.

Careers in Child Development and Family Studies The Child Development curriculum is designed to prepare students for employment as teachers, directors, and aides in infant/toddler, preschool, and school age childcare and education. You could also become an entrepreneur and operate your own licensed daycare center. Additional opportunities in Child Development currently exist in a variety of specialty programs which serve young children such as the Education Department of the San Diego Zoo, and child abuse shelter care such as the Polinsky Children’s Center. One of the great aspects of working within the childcare industry is that there are many different working patterns available to you, both full time and part time, and it provides for flexible hours as well.

What will I learn in the Child Development and Family Studies program? Did you know that ‘Peek-a-Boo!’ helps infants learn object permanence, an important precursor in symbolic understanding? Developing object permanence is a milestone children need to develop language, pretend play and exploration, and helps children work through separation anxiety. Children learn to think and develop skills by using their senses to play and explore the world around them. Our program offers the opportunity to learn about developmentally appropriate education and services for young children. It emphasizes curriculum planning for children from infancy through school age, guidance techniques, special needs of children and families, creative learning, health and safety education, administration of child development programs and current issues in the field. Whether you’re thinking about what to do after high school, are already working with children, or looking for a change of career, we have information and inspiration to help you create a professional career in one of the most personally rewarding fields.

“The children’s services sector is one of the most fulfilling career paths you can take, where you’re not only going to be sought after by employers, but changing the lives of children you care for.” - Kirana

What can I expect to earn with a certificate or degree in Child Development and Family Studies? Early childhood development positions are growing in demand as more women continue to enter the workforce. Entry-level salaries start at $11-$15/hour. A Certificate of Proficiency demonstrates you have the skills to command higher pay. A two-year degree is a good precursor to professions requiring advanced degrees.

Source: California Community Colleges: Salary Surfer The salary information listed is based on averages, unless noted. Actual salaries may vary greatly based on specialization within the field, location, years of experience and a variety of other factors.

Median Annual Salary

Curriculum AwardType

2 YearsBefore

2 YearsAfter

5 YearsAfter

Early Care and Education

Children with Special Needs

Certificate Degree

Administration/Management

Family Studies

Certificate Certificate

Degree CertificateCertificate

$23,021 $17,796 $17,246 $15,889

$11,966 $19,149$12,287

$22,767 $22,808$21,431 $16,707

$18,377 $23,877$18,625

$23,660 $23,660$21,972 $N/A

$25,386 $26,784$22,582

Infants and ToddlersPreschool Age Children

CTE - Child Development

Certificates and Degrees • Associate Teacher • Certificate of Achievement • Certificate of Proficiency • Child Development Master Teacher • Child Development Site Supervisor Many courses available online!

Career Opportunities • Child Care Administrator • Infant and Toddler Care • Family Life Educator • Preschool Teacher/Director • Day Care Owner/Care Provider • School Teacher**• Social Worker** • Child Development Consultant • Corporate Human Services Consultant • Community Resource & Referral Professional • Toy Research and Development Professional **Requires an advanced degree

Grossmont ColleGe

Grossmont College Child Development and Family Studies

8800 Grossmont College DriveEl Cajon, CA 92020-1799

619-644-7000www.grossmont.edu

Career Technical Education WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT

Grossmont ColleGe

Program

CHILD DEVELOPMENT

and FAMILY STUDIES