Search | Menu Working with young children is extremely rewarding. You will help support the growth of our next generation.
You may choose a path that allows you to specialize in a particular age group, such as infants and toddlers. The demand for qualified caregivers is high, so get ready for a career where you can really make a difference!
Early Childhood Foundational Courses
Introduction to the Child Care Profession
This is a Wisconsin Department of Children and Families (DCF) required course to be a child care teacher. Learn the roles and responsibilities of an assistant teacher in a day care center, such as understanding child development, daily scheduling, positive guidance, day care regulations and health practices.
Skills and Strategies for the Child Care Teacher
Gain the skills and strategies you need to prepare for employment or boost your skills to reach the next level as a child care teacher. Prerequisite: Intro to Child Care Profession. Adding this second course fulfills the DCF requirement to be a lead child care teacher.
Fundamentals of Family Child Care
Fundamentals of Family Child Care will give you an overview of starting and operating an in home family child care. Topics include licensing and business requirements, resources, professionalism, special issues of care for each age group, and school age care with mixed ages.
Fundamentals of Infant and Toddler Care
Fundamentals of Infant and Toddler Care reviews child development and developmentally appropriate activities, planning environment and programs, and basic care routines and licensing requirements. Learn techniques that promote positive relationships between children and caregivers. This is the DCF required course to work with children under the age of two.
Two Ways to Register for Noncredit Courses
1. Register by Phone
- Call us at 608.243.5400
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Early Childhood Education Certificate and Degree Programs
First Step Basic Early Childhood Educator Technical Diploma
In just a few months you could be working your dream job in a preschool, daycare or early childhood center. This technical certificate program will teach you the essential skills and requirements you need to work in early childhood education.
9 credits | Finish in 4-8 months
Second Step Early Childhood Education Preschool
Help shape the hearts and minds of young children with a certificate in early childhood education. This 21-credit program will teach you the specialized skills you need to work with children age 3 and over.
21 credits | Finish in less than a year
Third Step Child Care Services Technical Diploma
Develop the skills and experience you need for a fulfilling role in early childhood education. You will be prepared to create and maintain safe, healthy play environments, guide behavior, plan and implement learning activities and work cooperatively with staff and parents.
30 credits | Finish in less than a year
More Certificates and Degree Programs in Early Childhood Education
Early Childhood Education Associate Degree
Early Childhood Education: Infant and Toddler Certificate
Early Childhood Education: Diversity Credential
Early Childhood Education Administrator
Early Childhood Education Inclusion Credential - Coming soon