Sep 20, 2026  
Undergraduate Catalog 2026-2027 
    
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Undergraduate Catalog 2026-2027

EDU 158 Infant/Toddler Development and Care

Credits: (3)
Infant/Toddler Development and Care explores developmental milestones from birth to age three through the lens of brain research, inclusive practices, and culturally responsive caregiving. Topics include early intervention, trauma-informed care, and strategies for building strong partnerships with families to support infant and toddler development. This course has a field placement requirement to bridge theory and practice. Students will complete a 25-hour field placement in a licensed early childhood setting. This hands-on experience provides opportunities for meaningful observation, assessment, and responsive interaction with infants and toddlers.

Learning Outcomes
  1. Explain key developmental milestones and the interrelationship between domains of infant and toddler development.
  2. Analyze the impact of early brain development and adverse experiences on learning, behavior, and health outcomes.
  3. Identify signs of atypical development and summarize appropriate steps for early intervention and referral.
  4. Design developmentally and culturally responsive caregiving strategies and environments for infants and toddlers.
  5. Evaluate infant/toddler learning environments using observation tools such as ITERS, and recommend improvements that promote optimal development.