Child Care and Education Credentials
Welcome, early childhood and afterschool professionals
Achieve your goals online with the University of Wisconsin-Platteville. Earn your Child Care Credential or take a course within the program that will help you progress in your career.
100% online and accredited, these credential programs are available to help you achieve your professional goals.
• Administrator
• Administrador en Español
• Afterschool and Youth Development
• Family Child Care
• Family Child Care en Español
• Inclusion
• Infant-Toddler
• Infant-Toddler en Español
• Leadership
• Preschool
• Preescolar en Español
• Program Development
• Program Development en Español
• Supporting Dual Language Learners
NEW! Free Online Application!
Please fill out the FREE Application from UW System online at apply.wisconsin.edu/homepage
• You will apply as a special student or Undergraduate Non-Degree Seeking Student
• Select Just Taking a Few Courses for Undergraduate Credit
• Select UW-Platteville as your campus
• Select the program, Early Child Care Credentials
You do not need to submit transcripts or fill out the essay or parent information section.
After you are admitted to the university, you will be able to choose your course or courses each semester via the Pioneer Portal.
We hope you’ll join the University of Wisconsin-Platteville family.
Find out more information at Go.UWPlatt.edu/ECE.
New to online learning? Here’s what to expect.
Computer access
You will need access to highspeed internet and a computer with a webcam. You will use a digital learning environment to access course documents, submit assignments, and collaborate with classmates.
Participation
You will be able to participate in live, online evening classes via web-conferencing. These exciting online conversations allow you to learn from your instructors and peers.
Support
Your instructors have experience working in the early childhood and school-age fields, and they are ready and equipped to support you in any way that they can.
You can do this! We will help you every step of the way.
To request disability accommodations, contact the School of Education at 608.342.1315 or education@uwplatt.edu.
Administrator Credential Program
Offered in English or Spanish | The Administrator Credential features the following six, three-credit courses:
Administration/Supervision in Early Childhood Programs
This course represents an overview of the roles and responsibilities of administrators of various early care and education programs and the groups with whom they have relationships, with an emphasis on quality.
3 undergrad credits/45 contact hours
Operations Management in Early Childhood Programs
You’ll be introduced to systems and operations theory and the identification of concepts, processes, systems, and policies involved in the internal management of early child care and education programs. Apply this knowledge to plans for the improvement of these necessary systems and the development of standard operating procedures.
3 undergrad credits/45 contact hours
Financial Management and Planning in Early Childhood Programs
Develop knowledge of the principles of sound financial management and the ability to apply those principles to the financial planning and management of early childhood programs.
3 undergrad credits/45 contact hours
Early Childhood Programs and the External Environment
Examine the external factors and relationships that provide constraints and opportunities which affect an organization’s quality and ability to survive. You will learn to predict supply and demand, marketing, licensing and required regulations, funding, accreditation, external evaluation, collaboration with community organizations and agencies, public policy issues in early care and education, advocacy, and working for public policy changes.
3 undergrad credits/45 contact hours
La credencial del administrador en español
La credencial del administrador le ayudará a desarrollar las habilidades y las capacidades necesitadas por los administradores y los directores ser acertada. La credencial del administrador es de seis cursos, con una secuencia de 18 créditos.
Go.UWPlatt.edu/Administrator-Spanish
Las fechas de inicio de cada curso se pueden encontrar en las páginas 6 y 7.
Best Practices for Children and Families in Early Childhood Programs
This course covers child care as a family-friendly community and the integration of child growth and development principles into all aspects of an early childhood program. Learn how to establish and maintain quality in the program and how to develop partnerships with families. It also discusses multicultural and anti-bias approaches in curriculum, space design, and equipment.
3 undergrad credits/45 contact hours
Administrative Seminar— Capstone Course
This course is designed to prepare participants to receive their credential as a child care administrator. Focus is on the integration and application of the concepts and skills acquired in the first five courses as demonstrated in the development of a major project by each student.
3 undergrad credits/45 contact hours
For more information or to register, visit Go.UWPlatt.edu/Administrator.
Eight-week courses start all year long. See pages 6 and 7 for course start dates.
Infant-Toddler Credential Program
Offered in English or Spanish | The Infant-Toddler Credential features the following four, three-credit courses:
Infant-Toddler Development
This course is an introduction to the development, care, and education of children from birth to 3 years. You will explore principles of caregiving, developmentally appropriate practice, diversity, curriculum, guidance, observation, and assessment.
3 undergrad credits/45 contact hours
Group Care for Infants and Toddlers
Learn how to care for infants and toddlers in group settings, both center-based and family care. This course will cover program safety, developmentally appropriate practice, inclusion, and diversity.
3 undergrad credits/45 contact hours
Child, Family, and Community Relations
Examine partnerships with parents and collaboration with the community. Topics will include parent education, involvement, inclusion, and issues regarding public policy, advocacy, community resources, and professionalism.
3 undergrad credits/45 contact hours
Infant-Toddler—Capstone Course
This course provides the opportunity to synthesize the information from the first three courses and demonstrate mastery of the competencies listed in those courses through the completion of a portfolio.
3 undergrad credits/45 contact hours
El niño infantil en español
For more information or to register, visit Go.UWPlatt.edu/ Infant-Toddler.
See pages 6 and 7 for course start dates.
La credencial infantil del niño beneficiará lo mejor posible a los que trabajen con los niños bajo la edad de3 años. Dos de los cuatro cursos de estas credenciales del niño infantil son con una secuencia de 12 créditos estos también están dentro del plan de estudio estatal del sistema técnico de la universidad de Wisconsin para el grado de asociado en la educación temprana de la niñez.
Go.UWPlatt.edu/Infant-Toddler-Spanish
Las fechas de inicio de cada curso se pueden encontrar en las páginas 6 y 7.
Preschool Credential Program
Offered in English or Spanish | These courses transfer to the associate degree in early childhood education. The Preschool Credential features the following six, three-credit courses:
Foundations of Early Childhood Education
This course introduces the early childhood profession through a historical overview of the field. The course will explore program trends, quality indicators, and developmentally appropriate practices for children birth to 8 years of age. Explore early childhood curriculum models and the role of the educator.
3 undergrad credits/45 contact hours
Health, Safety, and Nutrition in Early Childhood
Learn the regulations and standards as they apply to health, safety, and nutrition to develop a safe and healthy early childhood program. Study child abuse and neglect mandates, and apply Sudden Infant Death Syndrome risk reduction strategies.
3 undergrad credits/45 contact hours
Social Studies, Art, Music, and Movement in Early Childhood
Focus on beginning level curriculum development in the specific integrated content areas of social studies, art, music, and movement for teaching children ages 3–6, including integrating play-based learning. Learn the skills and resources needed to design, implement, and evaluate developmentally appropriate, meaningful, and challenging curriculum for each group of children and individual child in the early learning environment.
3 undergrad credits/45 contact hours
Child Development
Examine child development within the context of an early childhood education setting including social, cultural, and economic influences on the development of children ages 3–8. Discuss the role of heredity and the environment.
3 undergrad credits/45 contact hours
Preescolar en español
La credencial preescolar fue desarrollada usando cursos del plan de estudios del estado de Wisconsin Technical College System para el grado de asociado en educación de la primera infancia. Este programa de credenciales constituye un total de seis cursos. Cada curso tiene un equivalente de tres créditos los cuales en su totalidad forman un total de 18 créditos. Esta credencial es para maestros de preescolar, maestros asistentes, directores de programas y administradores que trabajan con niños de 3 a 5 años de edad.
Go.UWPlatt.edu/Preschool-Spanish
Las fechas de inicio de cada curso se pueden encontrar en las páginas 6 y 7.
Guiding Children’s Behavior with the Pyramid Model
Learn strategies to guide children’s behavior in early education settings. Analyze the factors affecting the behavior of children, practice positive guidance strategies, develop guidance strategies to meet individual needs, and develop a guidance philosophy. This course counts toward the YoungStar Pyramid Model criteria.
3 undergrad credits/45 contact hours
For more information or to register, visit Go.UWPlatt.edu/Preschool.
Eight-week courses start all year long. See pages 6 and 7 for course start dates.
Early Language and Literacy
This course explores strategies to encourage the development of early language and literacy knowledge and skill-building in children from birth to 8 years of age. Learners will investigate the components of literacy, including literacy as a source of enjoyment, vocabulary and oral language, phonological awareness, knowledge of print, letters and words, dual language learning, and comprehension of books and other texts.
3 undergrad credits/45 contact hours
Child Care Credential Schedule
course schedule, by program, that start:
Child Care Credential Schedule
Eight-week course schedule, by program, that start:
Infant-Toddler Credential
Infant-Toddler Development
Group Care for Infants and Toddlers
Child, Family, and Community Relations
Infant-Toddler—Capstone Course
Infant-Toddler Credential in Spanish
Infant-Toddler Development
Group Care for Infants and Toddlers
Child, Family, and Community Relations
Infant-Toddler—Capstone Course
Preschool Credential
Foundations of Early Childhood Education
Health, Safety, and Nutrition in Early Childhood
Social Studies, Art, Music, and Movement in Early Childhood
Child Development
Guiding Children’s Behavior with the Pyramid Model
Early Language and Literacy
Preschool Credential in Spanish
Foundations of Early Childhood Education
Health, Safety, and Nutrition in Early Childhood
Child Development
Social Studies, Art, Music, and Movement in Early Childhood
Guiding Children’s Behavior with the Pyramid Model x
Early Language and Literacy
Program Development Credential
Introduction to Program Development
Observation, Assessment, and Evaluation
Designing Environments for Learning
Staff Supervision, Coaching, and Professional Development—Capstone
Program Development Credential in Spanish
Introduction to Program Development
Observation, Assessment, and Evaluation
Designing Environments for Learning
Staff Supervision, Coaching, and Professional Development—Capstone
Supporting Dual-Language Learners Credential
Introduction to Dual Language Learning in Early Childhood
Components of a Quality Dual Language Program
Supporting Language Acquisition in Early Childhood Dual Language Learners x
Assessment of Dual Language Learners in Early Childhood
Family Child Care Credential Program
Offered in English or Spanish | The Family Child Care Credential features the following four, three-credit courses:
Introduction to Family Child Care and Curriculum
Examine the unique aspects of planning curriculum for family child care settings and integrate inclusive strategies through exploration of playbased learning and the utilization of observation and assessment techniques to promote child outcomes. This course is aligned with the Wisconsin Model Early Learning Standards and National Association for Family Child Care Quality Standards.
3 undergrad credits/45 contact hours
Special Topics in Family Child Care
Explore special topics relevant to the family child care setting including quality standards, professional development, community resources, health and wellness practices, and family partnerships.
3 undergrad credits/45 contact hours
Financial Management and Planning
Develop knowledge of the principles of sound financial management and the ability to apply those principles to the financial planning and management of early childhood and family child care programs. NOTE: If you have completed the Administrator Credential, you will not have to take the Financial Management and Planning #3 course as part of your Family Child Care Credential.
3 undergrad credits/45 contact hours
Family Child Care— Capstone Course
Integrate and apply specific concepts and skills of family child care, including mixed-age curriculum, quality standards, professional development, community resources, health and wellness practices, family partnerships, and financial management in this capstone course. This experience reflects the learner’s knowledge of family child care through the development of a major project.
3 undergrad credits/45 contact hours
Credencial de cuidado infantil familiar en Español
Esta credencial de cuatro cursos (12 créditos) está diseñada para proveedores de cuidado infantile familiar o personas que buscan convertirse en proveedores de cuidado infantil familiar. Los estudiantes examinarán los aspectos únicos del cuidado infantil familiar con un fuerte énfasis en los Estándares de Calidad de la Asociación Nacional de Cuidado Infantil Familiar.
Go.UWPlatt.edu/Family-Spanish
Las fechas de inicio de cada curso se pueden encontrar en las páginas 6 y 7. Eight-week courses start all year long. See pages 6 and 7 for course start dates.
Leadership Credential Program
The Leadership Credential explores the importance of excellence and diversity in early care and education programs and the role of vision and reflective practice in reaching these goals. These courses are to be taken in order and are designed to enhance existing leadership skills while gaining knowledge and creating networks with other leaders in the field.
For more information or to register, visit Go.UWPlatt.edu/Leadership.
The Leadership Credential features the following four, three-credit courses:
The Personal Disposition of a Leader
Next course starts Jan. 27, 2025
3 undergrad credits/45 contact hours
Leading in Your Program
Next course starts March 31, 2025
3 undergrad credits/45 contact hours
Leading in Your Community and the Field
Next course starts June 23, 2025
3 undergrad credits/45 contact hours
Leading for Change— Capstone Course
Next course starts Sept. 2, 2025
3 undergrad credits/45 contact hours
Inclusion Credential Program
The Inclusion Credential is designed for preschool teachers, assistant teachers, program directors, and administrators who wish to provide a more inclusive environment for children with special needs. This credential meets the needs of early care and education professionals by promoting confidence and providing resources to those caring for children with differing abilities. Early childhood practitioners will gain the skills and confidence to support children and their families in an inclusive environment. Completion of the Credential meets Department of Children and Families educational requirements for an Early Childhood Teacher. Additionally, the first three courses within the Inclusion Credential qualify for additional optional YoungStar points.
The Inclusion Credential features the following four, three-credit courses:
Children with Differing Abilities
3 undergrad credits/45 contact hours
Children with Behavior and Emotional Challenges
3 undergrad credits/45 contact hours
Children with Special Health Care Needs
3 undergrad credits/45 contact hours
Family and Team Centered Practice—Capstone Course
3 undergrad credits/45 contact hours
Eight-week courses start all year long. See pages 6 and 7 for course start dates. For more information or to register, visit Go.UWPlatt.edu/Inclusion.
Afterschool and Youth Development Credential Program
The Afterschool Credential features the following four, three-credit courses:
Foundations of Afterschool and Youth Development
Develop the knowledge and skills you need to care for school-age children in a group child care setting. Identify and understand the key components of a quality afterschool environment and how to implement this in your own program. Identify the various models of afterschool and out-ofschool programs for youth. Learn the importance of informal education for school-age children. This course also fulfills the Department of Children and Families course criteria for the Introduction to the School Age Profession course.
3 undergrad credits/45 contact hours
Engaging Youth in Groups
Analyze the skills and strategies necessary to effectively lead youth in a group setting. Examine youth
engagement, group dynamics theory, and how to guide children individually and within a group. Learn positive guidance techniques and strategies to support children as they develop self-regulation, positive self-concept, coping mechanisms, conflict resolution skills, and positive interactions with others.
3 undergrad credits/45 contact hours
Intentionality in Programming
Examine models of programming in an afterschool program and the qualities that create a positive informal learning environment, activity, or experience. Learn to use observation to assess the needs of the individual child and group and to create individualized instruction and learning environments.
3 undergrad credits/45 contact hours
For more information or to register, visit Go.UWPlatt.edu/Afterschool.
Eight-week courses start all year long. See pages 6 and 7 for course start dates.
Site Programming and Operations— Capstone Course
This course combines the material from the first three courses and identifies how to integrate the best practices of expanded, informal learning into the daily afterschool program operations. Learn the foundations of risk management, regulations, developing family and community partners, financial management, health, safety, wellness, and professionalism in practice.
3 undergrad credits/45 contact hours
For more information or to register, visit Go.UWPlatt.edu/ Program-Development.
Eight-week courses start all year long. See pages 6 and 7 for course start dates.
La Credencial de Desarrollo de Programa en Español
La Credencial de Desarrollo de Programa en es un programa de cuatro cursos y doce créditos que lo ayudará a diseñar, implementar y evaluar su programa de cuidado infantil. Aprenda a crear una comunidad positiva de niños y adultos que promueva un desarrollo infantil óptimo, familias saludables y relaciones saludables.
Go.UWPlatt.edu/ECE
Las fechas de inicio de cada curso se pueden encontrar en las páginas 6 y 7.
Program Development Credential
Offered in English or Spanish | The Program Development Credential features the following four, three-credit courses:
Introduction to Program Development
Overview of program development, exploring definitions, roles, ethics, and responsibilities. This course will define and describe what an early care and education/youth care program is and what it means to be responsible for developing and implementing a high quality program.
3 undergrad credits/45 contact hours
Observation, Assessment, and Evaluation*
Practical application of techniques and tools for observation, assessment, and evaluation of individual children, curriculum, classrooms, and staff. Systems for planning, goal setting, and monitoring will provide continuous information on the quality
of the early childhood program, teachers, and student outcomes.
3 undergrad credits/45 contact hours
* Includes the Wisconsin Model Early Learning Standards training applicable for YoungStar optional Learning Environment and Curriculum points.
Designing Environments for Learning
Environments are a reflection of program philosophy and either assist or hinder children’s learning. This course imparts how to create quality program environments that accommodate the physical and social needs of children and reflect cultural sensitivity and diversity. This course provides students the opportunity to demonstrate competency of skills covered in the previous courses.
3 undergrad credits/45 contact hours
Staff Supervision, Coaching, and Professional Development— Capstone Course
Program quality is dependent on the knowledge and performance of the staff working directly with children. This course provides program supervisors and lead personnel with the tools to develop excellent learning environments through staff development, coaching, supervision, and community building. This course uses the Wisconsin Model Early Learning Standards as a framework for program quality and both supervisory and teaching staff expectations.
3 undergrad credits/45 contact hours
1 University Plaza Stop 1 | Platteville WI 53818-3099
Are you ready to advance your career?
We’ll bring our fully-accredited, online program to you and help you every step of the way. Contact us today.
PHONE: 608.342.1315
EMAIL: education@uwplatt.edu
WEBSITE: Go.UWPlatt.edu/ECE
“The Infant-Toddler Credential course assignments included things that I could use right away in my program. It helped me improve my teaching, the children’s learning environments, and my curriculum planning skills. Many of the assignments were actually very fun to complete. I made huge gains through this credential and feel very good about the teacher I am becoming.”
“I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the waters to create
many
ripples.” – Mother Teresa
Ashley Lundt Infant-Toddler Credential program
