The first three years of life are a period of incredible growth in all areas of a baby's development. It is important that the care young children receive promotes their healthy growth and development. Responsive care from trained child care professionals helps infants and toddlers get off to a good start and establish a healthy foundation for lifelong learning. The Family Resource Network, part of the statewide Early Childhood Enrichment system, offers a variety of services to support individuals who are dedicated to offering the best possible care for young children.
The Child and Family Resource Network's Infant Toddler Specialist offers:
- Professional development opportunities specific to Infant/Toddler care on topics such as infant development in language, motor and social skills, learning environments, relationships with families, health and safety;
- On-site technical assistance.
- Site Observations.
- Telephone consultations for child care staff and parents.
- A resource lending library with professional resources, information, curriculum planning ideas and infant-toddler toys and equipment.
Consider Earning a South à£à£Ö±²¥Ðã Infant-Toddler Certificate
Caring for infants and toddlers takes a special set of skills and knowledge. The Infant Toddler Certificate offers an individual an opportunity to receive training specific to this age group which will allow them to gain a deeper understanding of the significant development which occurs in these early years of life.
The Division of Child Care Services, with its partner agencies, the regional Early Childhood Enrichment offices (ECE's), offering training which can lead to a state issued Infant Toddler Certificate.
How do I earn an Infant Toddler Certificate?
- Infant/Toddler Entry Level
- Infant/Toddler Quality Practices
- Infant/Toddler Social Emotional Foundations for Learning
- Lesson Planning
- Early Learning Guidelines
*Note: Classes completed within the last two years may be counted toward the certificate.
Successful completion of the entry level Infant Toddler Training and the Child Growth and Development area will earn the participant a South à£à£Ö±²¥Ðã Infant Toddler Certificate.
Is there additional training after the Infant Toddler Certificate?
YES! The South à£à£Ö±²¥Ðã Child Development Associates Credential is a nationally recognized credential which is offered through the local ECE offices. The 45 hours of training in Child Growth and Development for the Infant Toddler Certificate articulate into the SDCDA Credential. What this means is, when you complete your SD Infant Toddler Certificate, you are about half way to completing the training hours for the national credential!
How do I get started?
Contact the Infant Toddler Specialist at the Child and Family Resource Network. They will be able to inform you of class schedules in your area and help you determine where you are at in meeting each step of the training for the South à£à£Ö±²¥Ðã Infant Toddler Certificate.