Early Intervention Specialization

Not all children develop at the same rate. With the Early Intervention specialization, you will gain knowledge on how to assist babies and toddlers who are exhibiting developmental delays. Courses cover cognitive and language development, strategies to promote optimal behavior in diverse childhood populations, and the roles that educators, families, and community members play in the instruction of young children.

Program Disclosures

Early Intervention Specialization for Undergraduate Degrees

Learn how to identify developmental delays and hone the skills to help children overcome barriers to learning. This undergraduate specialization consists of four (4), three (3) credit courses.

Degrees Offering the Early Intervention Specialization

BA in Early Childhood Development with Differentiated Instruction

Undergraduate Early Intervention Specialization Courses

ECD 301 Foundations of Early Intervention

3 Credits

This course provides an introduction to early intervention for children and their families (birth to age 3). Students will explain the historical, legal and educational basis for early intervention. Subsequently, students will describe professional standards and ethics and their relationship to early intervention. Students will analyze the roles of early educators in the delivery of instructional services for young children. In addition, students will explain early intervention strategies and services and create a plan for collaborating with families and other professionals.  Prerequisite: ECD 201

ECD 320 Cognition and Language Development

3 Credits

This course provides students with a foundation of the theoretical frameworks related to cognitive and language development in children from birth to age three. Using this foundation, students will analyze current research and its influence on language acquisition and cognitive development. Additionally, students will explore the relationship between cognitive and language development. Finally, students will prepare an analysis of referral and intervention strategies for students with exceptionalities related to language and cognitive development.  Prerequisite: ECD 310

ECD 345 Family Systems and Community Resources

3 Credits

This course provides students with an analysis of theories and approaches for working with children, families, and the community. Students will examine how culture and family structure influences a child’s learning and development. Additionally, students will synthesize how children’s needs are met and supported through the family and community environment as socializing agents. Finally, students will evaluate family and community programs, agencies and resources that support the diverse needs of children.  Prerequisite: ECD 335

ECD 410 Behavioral Methods and Strategies

3 Credits

In this course students will analyze the major theories of behavior. Students will evaluate effective strategies for both practitioners and families to use to promote optimal behavior in a diverse childhood population. In addition, students will create an environment that is inclusive of different behavioral needs. Finally, students will design an individual behavioral support plan for specific disruptive behaviors.  Prerequisite: ECD 405