Agrilife Extension Resources

Children are born curious about the world in which they live. In this course, we discuss how to use a variety of dresearch-based learning materials to promote and enhance their natural curiosity, reasoning, and problem-solving in the areas of social studies and nature.

After completing this 2-hour course, the learner will be able to describe how social studies and using nature support children’s cognitive development. Social studies experiences should reflect the range of the children’s cultural groups. The learner will be able to give activity examples from these two areas.

Supporting the development of language skills is a crucial undertaking for all early childhood teachers. Language is the foundation for verbal language to occur and can be developed throughout every minute of the day!

In this 4-hour course, the learner will be able to explain strategies to use in the classroom to support children’s language development, describe how to create a language-rich environment and how this supports children’s growth and development, and explain how dual language learners are supported through ECE best practices and why this support is essential.

Science and young children are a great fit! How many times does a young child ask, “Why?” This natural curiosity is the precursor to all different types of inquiry and exploration. Everything is new and fascinating for young children. Building on that is such fun, for you and the children! This course may be included in the training hours needed for the CDA credential.

After completing this 4-hour course, the learner will be able to describe how science supports development in the area of cognition, define and give activity examples for the categories of science and describe how technology can be used in a developmentally appropriate way in prekindergarten.

Creating healthy habits is a critical element of quality early childhood programs. This course reviews practices that promote physical activity in young children. It is aligned with Texas Healthy Building Blocks recognition criteria and was developed with support from the Texas Department of State Health Services.

Infants and toddlers engage in challenging behaviors as a way of communicating that they have unmet needs. Enroll in this online course to learn how to recognize, understand, and develop responses to these types of behavior as well as working with a team to fully assess and address challenging infant and toddler behavior.

One of the most challenging aspects of child care is deciding upon a style of discipline that is appropriate, effective, and in the best interest of each child. Students will learn about the strengths and weaknesses of various disciplinary styles and explore strategies for setting and enforcing healthy limits.

Early childhood educators strive to establish warm and secure relationships with children in their care. Unfold strategies for building strong relationships with families while supporting social and emotional development. Recognize the importance of responsive interactions, positive guidance, exploration, and play.

Providing a broad overview of 4 main areas of child growth and development, this course offers practical tips on supporting children’s development. Key findings from brain research and its relevance to the care of young children is briefly explored, as well as the principles of Developmentally Appropriate Practice (DAP).

Infants’ experiences early in life literally influence the physical structures of the brain, opening the way for patterns of thought and behavior for the rest of a child’s life. This 1-hour course addresses critical topics related to caring for the youngest and most vulnerable population of children, infants and toddlers.