ECYD 2340 - Children with Differing Abilities

3 Credits
Prerequisites ECYD 1215

This course examines the development of children with differing abilities. Students will integrate strategies that support inclusive programs for children, apply legal and ethical requirements including, but not limited to, the American Disabilities Act and Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. Students will differentiate between typical and atypical development, analyze the differing abilities of children with physical, cognitive, health/medical, communication, and/or behavioral/emotinal special needs and explore strategies to adapt curriculum to meet the needs of children with developmental differences and cultivate partnerships with families. This course includes an emphasis on the use of sign language with children to supportcommunication and the development of language skills. Prerequisite: ECYD 1215 To complete assignments in this class, students are required to spend approximately 15 hours per semester outside of class time observing and interacting with young childrn in community-based early childhood programs.Note: This course requires a Minnesota Criminal Background Study including fingerprints.

Learning Outcomes
Explain the typical and atypical development and exceptional needs of children with special needs including physical, cognitive, communication, behavioral, health/medical, perceptual, and social/emotional needs.

Describe the concept of addressing the needs of the whole child as a learner within an inclusive environment.

Develop individualized plans and teaching strategies for children with special needs that utilize each student’s strengths and support all students in achieving success at the highest possible level.

Adapt experiences in the early childhood environment to support children’s learning style, ability level, strengths, and special needs.

Explain the child?s rights and teachers’ legal and ethical responsibilities to appropriate education for students with disabilities.

Identify practices that foster effective communication, collaboration, and referrals with families, school personnel, and community resources or agencies.