Understanding Child Development is the first course in the Family Child Care 24-Hour Preservice Series.

This course examines several theories of child development. You will also learn how to apply these theories to support best practices in child care.

Estimated class time: 4 hours
MSDE Clock hours earned: Core of Knowledge - Child Development 4 hours

Curriculum Development is the second course in the Family Child Care 24-Hour Preservice Series.

This course examines the concept of curriculum development. You will learn about Developmentally Appropriate Practice and effective planning. You will learn how to apply different curriculum development strategies to support best practices in child care.

Estimated class time: 4 hours
MSDE Clock hours earned: Core of Knowledge - Curriculum 4 hours

Creating a Safe and Healthy Family Care program is the third course in the Family Child Care 24-Hour Preservice Series.

This course examines the important roles of healthy routines, safety measures and nutritious meal planning in the family care home. You will learn ways to prevent the spread of illness, how to respond to emergency situations, and how to plan a healthy menu for children of different ages.

Estimated class time: 4 hours
MSDE Clock hours earned: Core of Knowledge - Health, Safety and Nutrition 4 hours

Building an Inclusive Program is the fourth course in the Family Child Care 24-Hour Preservice Series.

This course examines child development and the importance of early intervention for children with special needs. You will learn to recognize signs of potential developmental delays and how to plan appropriate adaptations to build an inclusive program.

Estimated class time: 4 hours
MSDE Clock hours earned: Core of Knowledge - Special Needs 4 hours

Professionalism: Owning Your Own Business is the fifth course in the Family Child Care 24-Hour Preservice Series.

This course examines the importance of professionalism to family child care providers. You will learn about the responsibilities, joys and challenges of running your own family child care business. You will study appropriate supervision, COMAR and effective communication with parents. In addition, you will learn how to apply write a business plan, develop appropriate policies and procedures, and to support best practices in family child care.

Estimated class time: 4 hours
MSDE Clock hours earned: Core of Knowledge - Professionalism 4 hours



Building Community Connections is the sixth and final course in the Family Child Care 24-Hour Preservice Series.

This course examines the role of community in child development. You will learn about the community and national resources available to family child care providers. You will also focus on how to build positive relationships with the families that you serve. In addition, you will explore how cultural influences shape community and how to build a culturally relevant program.

Estimated class time: 4 hours
MSDE Clock hours earned: Core of Knowledge - Community 4 hours