Why would someone work all day and then commit to attending college classes, doing homework assignments and studying? Some people make the commitment because of job requirements; some want to earn a two-year degree and then work toward a four-year degree; some simply want to learn more about their chosen field. Whatever the reason, many people in early childhood careers are pursuing their professional goals by earning a degree from Cayuga Community College.

CCC's “EC in 3” program was designed to make those goals attainable for adults who are working full-time. Participants can complete the associate's degree in early childhood in three years by attending class weekday evenings, Sunday mornings and afternoons and/or online.

The associate in applied science degree in early childhood education is CCC's most popular education program. The curriculum prepares graduates to work with children from birth to 8 years of age, and also serves as a foundation for transfer to some private colleges and universities.

Students take a wide variety of courses - from general education background in English, history, psychology and science to degree-specific courses such as Methods and Materials in Early Childhood, Curriculum and Assessment, Infants and Toddlers, Language and Literacy Development in Young Children, Introduction to Children with Exceptionalities, Mathematics for Elementary Teachers, Technology for Teachers and Physical Education for Children. In addition, students take practical courses such as first aid and CPR. Students also complete “field experience hours” - more than 200 hours working with young children in classrooms throughout the community.

With their early childhood degree in hand, graduates may enter or upgrade their career directly, or may apply to transfer into the junior year of a bachelor's degree program. For those graduates, career paths as child care providers, teachers and teacher assistants range from preschool into the early grades of elementary school. In such settings, educated professionals can have a tremendous favorable influence on the development of young children.

According to the National Association for the Education of Young Children, research indicates that well-prepared early childhood professionals are more likely to provide young children with warm, safe and stimulating environments that lead to healthy development and enhanced learning. Parents, schools, future employers and society in general benefit, as each new generation gains a caring, positive start in the community.

Many of the people in our area who are working with young children have earned their degrees, and many are continuing their higher education. You will find them at child care centers, family child care settings, preschools and elementary schools, dedicated to nurturing the children in their charge. If you're a parent whose child benefits from their service, let them know how much they are valued. And, if one of those providers has taken on the added challenge of attending classes, completing assignments and studying for tests, be sure to offer your appreciation and encouragement. They're doing this for themselves - and for your child.

Patricia Gridley, Ph.D., is an associate professor and the coordinator of the

Early Childhood program at Cayuga Community College.