Early Childhood Assistant Credential

Enrich the lives of children while building a rewarding career! Early Childhood Assistants provide care to young children in daycare and preschool settings under the supervision of a lead teacher or childcare professional. The Early Childhood Assistant Credential prepares you for Early Childhood Assistant positions, and meets the training and education requirements of the Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) and the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). You can expect to gain a deeper understanding of child development and how to create a rich environment that nurtures learning through play. You will learn how to maintain a safe and fun environment and observe children to individualize curricula and support for each child. This credential includes observation hours with infants, toddlers, and preschool children (experiences may be tailored based on your career goals). 

Searchable job titles may include: 

• Early Childhood Assistant 
• Daycare Assistant 
• Teacher’s Aide in a Daycare Setting 
• Teaching Assistant in Public School, Pre-K – 2nd grade 

Requirements

The Early Childhood Assistant Credential at Tompkins Cortland requires you to earn a passing grade in four courses and can typically be completed in 1-4 semesters. These four courses can be applied towards the Early Childhood A.A.S. degree. Courses are offered both online and in-person.

View the Program Requirements and Search for the listed Course Descriptions.

Our Partners

Thank you to the TC3 Childcare Center for helping create this microcredential. Our industry and community partners are vital to the success of our microcredential programs and many are leading employers of our graduates. Childcare is one of the most in-demand industries in our region and students are hired by: 

• Public and private elementary schools 
• Daycares 
• Nursery and pre-schools 
• Nonprofits 
• Afterschool programs 

Sign up today!

Financing your Microcredential

There are many resources available to assist you in paying for your microcredential. Discuss your options with an Admissions representative when you register. 

• Part-Time TAP for Non-Degree Programs is now available for many microcredentials at TC3! For more information the HESC website. A valid FAFSA must be on file to be eligible. To apply and for questions, contact Associate Director of Financial Aid Sarah Dockstater at seh@tompkinscortland.edu.
• Grant money is available through the Tompkins Community Recovery Fund for Tompkins County residents 
• Grants are available through Tompkins Workforce NY Career Center and Cortland Works Career Center for county residents 
• Several employers in our community offer tuition reimbursement and sponsorship specifically for microcredentials  
• Financial aid is available to eligible students who pursue the credential while matriculated in a degree program.