The need for skilled people to provide quality care and education for young children has become increasingly important because of the growing number of women employed outside the home.

Demand for child care workers is expected to grow by 38 percent in 10 years. Preschool teaching is listed by the U.S. Labor Department as one of the fastest growing occupations with a need for 143,000 new employees projected.

The CCC Early Childhood Education program prepares graduates for employment in child care centers, preschools, Head Start programs, foster care, community recreational programs and day camps.

Students in the program learn to provide appropriate development activities for children, build partnerships with families and communities and maintain a commitment to professionalism. Included are courses in early childhood development and behavior, appropriate teaching methods, safety, health and nutrition, early language and literacy, child care administration and creative activities for young.

Students develop and refine their teaching skills and techniques through practicum experience, working under the supervision of a teacher in a child care facility or early childhood program. Students are involved in observing, planning and implementing activities.

CCC-Grand Island students complete part of their practicum by working in the licensed on-campus child care center.

Pooh Corner College, a licensed day care center at CCC-Hastings Campus, provides practical experience for students enrolled in the program.

Columbus Campus and Hastings Campus students participate in activities in community child care centers. Students assist with the children under the direction of a supervising instructor or agency staff person.

Students in the Early Childhood Education diploma and associate of applied science degree programs complete practicum experiences in a child care program or early childhood program under the direction of a supervising teacher.

The degree includes additional course work in child care center administration.