This course will provide you with an introduction to Early Childhood Education and its basic fundamentals. This course provides an overview of the field of early childhood education. It addresses the historical and theoretical bases for early childhood education, as well as the influence of standards-based instruction and assessment on current program practices. Students will have the opportunity to explore characteristics of the scope of early childhood programs (i.e., infant and toddler through early elementary age), and the programs and practices appropriate for each level. The importance of working with children and families from diverse backgrounds will also be addressed. The course facilitates initial professional development through the initiation of an early childhood education program portfolio, and observation of professionals in the field. For this course, students are encouraged to pursue a 24-hour field experience as they pursue their studies for the course.