Students explore evidence-based approaches to build optimal relationships with families and children based on Brazelton Touchpoints Center guiding principles. Prerequisites: 56 credit hours completed or graduate status. Recommended: One year experience working with children and families.

Examines the social emotional development of young children, prenatal to 5-years-old, and factors that influence their development. Emphasis is on high-risk populations. Prerequisites: HDF 302; HDF 303; or graduate standing.

The role of the early childhood program director as leader and architect of the work environment and climate.Prerequisites: HDF 302 or 303; or ECDL Block; or graduate status.

Through integration of theory, research, and practice, this course focuses on encouraging positive developmental outcomes and resilience in children and adolescents facing stressful life circumstances. May be offered as Writing Intensive. Prerequisites: Two of: HDF 302, HDF 303, HDF 306, HDF 307, HDF 308; or graduate standing.

Topics of special interest which are not normally included in existing courses. Specific topic will be listed on student’s transcript. Prerequisites: See Course Search and Registration.

Students are empowered to become visionary leaders by integrating leadership skills to articulate impactful visions, driving strategic planning and fostering innovation in early childhood.

Graduate students will understand and apply equitable, relationship-based approaches to early childhood leadership and coaching. Prerequisite: HDF 650.

Graduate students will develop financial leadership skills for effective decision-making and strategic planning in early childhood through grant writing, budgeting, and feasibility studies. Prerequisite: HDF 650.

A mentor guided, hands-on early childhood leadership experience addressing real-world challenges through collaborative inquiry-based and strength-based approaches. Prerequisites: HDF 650 and two of: HDF 651, HDF 652, HDF 653, HDF 654.