This is a nine-hour (online) module series, broken up into three 3-hour classes.  This module series meets the criteria for the West Virginia Infant Toddler Specialization with the credentialing program. This course will provide an opportunity to explore the WV Early Learning Standards Framework for Infants and Toddlers by focusing on two developmental domains each class.  Each class will discuss the purpose, content, application and benefits of the learning standards, as well as, how to incorporate each domain into a lesson plan.  By the end of the module series, you will have a detailed explanation of how the early learning standards work, basic understanding of observations, individualized lesson planning and how to incorporate them into a complete group weekly lesson plan for infants and toddlers. 

Core Knowledge Areas:

Child Growth and Development:

1.2 Applies the process of assessment, planning implementation, and evaluation to support children’s growth through developmentally appropriate practices.

a. Understands developmental sequences and milestones.

c. Uses observation and assessment processes to understand children’s strengths, interests, and  the skills they are working to master.

d. Discusses development with parents/caregivers to help them with recognizing their child’s individuality and emerging milestones.

f. Spends time in thoughtful preparation before implementing experiences and interventions.

 g. Facilitates opportunities for children to learn and practice skills.

 h. Evaluates how well-planned experiences meet children’s needs and interests.

Observation and Assessment:

3.1 Uses observation and assessment to support children’s development and learning.  

b. Assesses children’s progress across all developmental domains.  

g. Uses assessment practices that are relevant to curriculum or program planning  

3.2 Practices appropriate child assessment   

a. Knows developmentally appropriate assessment methods. 

b. Engages in assessment practices within children’s familiar routines, materials, environments, and people, rather than in controlled situations.   

d. Considers children’s strengths and needs across all developmental domains. 

Learning Objectives:
Session 1:
- Identify the components of the WVELSF for infants and toddlers
- Define and describe child observations
- Define and Describe Domain 1, Approaches to learning and apply to individualized lesson planning
- Define and Describe Domain 2, Social/Emotional Development and apply to individualized lesson planning
Session 2:
- Describe the purpose and benefits of the WV ELSF for Infants and Toddlers
- Define and Describe Domain 3, Creative Expression and apply to individualized lesson planning
- Define and Describe Domain 4, Motor Development and apply to individualized lesson planning
Session 3:
- Define and Describe Domain 5, Language and Literacy and apply to individualized lesson planning
- Define and Describe Domain 6, Cognitive Development and apply to individualized lesson   planning
- Observe Child and Develop a group lesson plan

This training is owned by the West Virginia Division of Early Care and Education and presented by regional Resource & Referral Agency Professional Development Providers. This training may be restricted by region. Please contact the course instructor or your local Resource & Referral office if you have any questions.