ECE242C: Child, Family, and Community

Provides an overview of families and family systems (including Bronfenbrenner’s Bioecological Theory) with emphasis on developing effective models of teacher/program/family partnerships. Students will identify their own biases as a precursor to exploring issues of power and privilege in society. Cultural dilemmas and their impact on early care and education will be identified as students begin to evaluate their own cultural competence. Students will learn how to identify and strengthen protective factors that empower families and reduce the risk of child abuse. Students will research various crises encountered by families and identify an action plan to positively address the crisis. Community resources will be identified and involved. Service learning is a component of this course.