Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to: define and apply the basic principles of child growth and development; identify important milestones of physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development during early childhood; list the requirements for and establish and maintain a safe, healthy environment for young children; apply positive guidance techniques that support appropriate social and emotional development of young children; implement effective assessment methods in the early childhood setting; identify elements of a developmentally appropriate curriculum and overall learning environments in the early childhood setting; apply recommended strategies for building and maintaining positive relationships with families; formulate strategies to develop and maintain a successful program operation; maintain a commitment to professionalism and ethical conduct; and list the required components to document professional growth.