Students are required to display an in-depth knowledge of the basic principles underlying the development of young children and the role of play in both child development and the early childhood classroom. Topics include: the connections between play and children's development in areas such as cognition and emergent language, play as the basis of the preschool curriculum, and the importance of play for optimum physical and emotional child development.

Instruction: Proficiency exam: The examination is intended to measure a body of knowledge that candidates have acquired through prior learning experiences. Self-Study Format: Students are expected to master recommended readings and study guide materials. The course focuses on current approaches to using play in classroom and explores ways in which play can be supported by teachers. Students are expected to make connections between theory and classroom practice. Beyond the expectation that students will have thorough knowledge of this topic which must be displayed via a broad range of questions, they must present ideas in an organized and sophisticated manner through two short essay responses and one extensive essay. Topics include: the physical, emotional, and nutritional needs of infants and toddlers, family education and involvement, and curriculum planning for the infant and toddler program. Topics include: the physical, emotional, and nutritional needs of infants and toddlers, family education and involvement, and curriculum planning for the infant and toddler program.