About Our Program

The Infant/Toddler certificate provides students with a specialized focus on the unique strengths and needs of infants and toddlers with particular focus on children and families that are culturally, linguistically and ability diverse. Students will study the comprehensive development of the young child, birth to three years, with a focus on understanding current brain research and best caregiving practices. Students will explore the process of designing infant/toddler environments that are individually, culturally and developmentally appropriate with focus on creating inclusive environments. This certificate is intended for students who already hold degrees or who have taken extensive coursework in other academic fields, but would like to build their knowledge and skills of working with infants, toddlers and their families.

Nature of Work and Employment

Infant/Toddler certificate holders work in licensed child care programs as teachers or assistant teachers or for home visiting programs such as Early Head Start or Prevention Initiative programs. Family child care providers are encouraged to use this program to upgrade their own training and preparation.

Special Considerations

Certificate students must demonstrate good physical and emotional health and submit to and pass a criminal background check. Students interested in pursuing a Gateways to Opportunity Infant/Toddler Credential need to speak with the Coordinator of the Early Childhood Program regarding additional requirements to qualify for credentials.

Requirements

Course List

Code	Title	Hours
Required ECE Courses
ECE 205	Intro to Infant/Toddler Care 1	3
ECE 213	Incl Environ for Inf/Tod 1	3
Total Hours		6

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Course has a prerequisite. See course description.

Program Outcomes

• Evaluate children’s unique developmental patterns, utilize assessments to inform instruction, and identify appropriate resources for those who may require further support.
• Develop and implement teaching strategies, materials, and content to support varied learning styles and abilities, incorporating evidence-based practices such as universal design and children’s interests.
• Create and maintain safe, healthy, and engaging environments that promote each child’s learning and development through inclusive practices and high-quality, responsive interactions that support their sense of belonging and well-being.
• Interpret and utilize assessment data to guide instructional planning, adapt environments, and individualize learning experiences.
• Demonstrate ethical standards, professional conduct, and effectively collaborate with colleagues, families, and community partners.
• Advocate for the early childhood education profession and actively support families—including those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds—through informed, respectful engagement and community-focused advocacy.
• Implement high-quality, responsive learning experiences that align with children’s needs, feedback, and the Illinois Early Learning and Development Standards.

Program Contacts

Call Highland at 815-235-6121 for the following program contacts:

• Rae Schupbach-Roe, Dean, Humanities, Social Sciences, and Fine Arts
• Melissa Johnson, Coordinator of Early Childhood Education
• Vicki Schulz, Student Advisor/Transfer Coordinator