The program is designed to prepare outstanding teachers of young children who will have a strong foundation in child development theory and research and developmentally appropriate methodology for educating the different ages within the early childhood years (birth to age 8). Clinical experiences in the Shirley G. Moore Laboratory School and in local urban/suburban public schools create a strong experiential base in which to apply the principles and methods learned in University courses. Emphasis is placed on understanding individual learners, working with diverse learners, using a variety of instructional strategies, providing inclusive programming for children with and without special needs, working closely with families, and creating positive classroom communities.