This course is based on the foundation of research in child development and focuses on planning and implementing enriching environments with appropriate interactions and activities for young children (birth through 2 years) including those with special needs, to maximize physical, cognitive, communication, creative, language/ literacy, and social/emotional growth and development. Competencies are based on Standards developed by the National Association for the Education of Young Children for quality early childhood settings. Also covered: • Information on the Quality Approval process and Accreditation for Early Childhood settings in Arkansas, now called Better Beginnings • Arkansas Frameworks Handbook for Infants and Toddlers