Child Development majors will be people who engage in practices that:

• Have a strong developmental foundation and demonstrate understanding of the contextual and dynamic nature of developmental processes
• Establish effective communication, demonstrating respect and appreciation for others and creating spaces for thoughtful, well-informed exchanges
• Build, invest and engage in constructive relationships with children, families and fellow professionals, fostering collaboration to create and support compassionate communities
• Embrace diversity and appreciate humanity in themselves and others, fostering respectful and inclusive relationships
• Set high standards for ethical, responsible, reflective, proactive and professional behavior, participating in a variety of leadership roles and fostering the leadership of others
• Model and foster resilience and creativity in program and policy development, child and family support, and professional practices, focusing on critical and appreciative inquiry, continued exploration and learning, and a solution oriented perspective.
• Engage in and facilitate collaboration with children, families and peers to advocate for social justice and child and family well-being.

Child Development Students:

1.         Describe the principles and patterns of growth and development in the cognitive, brain, somatic and motor, communicative, emotional and social domains.

2.         Critically evaluate literature germane to Child Development discipline (theories, research, historical viewpoints, current viewpoints, contemporary trends, assumptions, practices)

3.         Identify and evaluate the variety of factors that influence children’s development (familial, social, environmental)

4.         Demonstrate knowledge about Child Development related professions (services, common foundations, opportunities for collaboration).

5.         Demonstrate practical skills in working with children (assessment instruments, guidance approaches, communication).

6.         Demonstrate skills required of professionals in the field (interpersonal communication, collaboration, advocacy, writing, presenting, using information technology).