The State Early Childhood Education Short Certificates of Specialization (20 credits) provide early childhood educators with the option to choose out of five focused areas of study. This consists of the State Early Childhood Education Initial Certificate, Child Development (5 credit) and the specialized area of interest (3 credit). This certificate aligns with the general staff qualification education requirements for staff interested in lead teacher positions in child care centers or for leading a family home childcare facility. The State Early Childhood Education, Short Certificate of Specialization School Age Care prepares child care providers to focus on care of School Aged children ages 5-12 years. This certificate prepares child care providers to create appropriate curriculum, prepare environments, maintain relationships, provide guidance and find community resources. All of the classes in this certificate will apply towards an AAS Degree in Early Childhood Education.