Course Name:	Diploma in Early Child Care & Education
Course Short Name:	DEC
Course Code::	ARJ0157
Course Type:	Diploma
Duration:	1 Year
Eligibility:	12th Pass
Total Subjects:	3

Core Course Structure (Semester-Wise)

 

The curriculum blends theoretical study with compulsory practical and field components.

 

 Foundations and Child Development

 

The first half focuses on the theoretical groundwork of child psychology and early learning.

Area of Study	Key Topics Covered
1. Introduction to ECCE	The philosophy, history, and significance of Early Childhood Education; the role of play in development; principles of quality ECCE planning; overview of National Education Policy (NEP) guidelines for the Foundational Stage.
2. Foundations of Child Development	Detailed study of milestones from birth to 6 years across all domains: Physical, Motor, Cognitive, Language, and Socio-Emotional; understanding developmental theories (e.g., Piaget, Vygotsky).
3. Child Health and Nutrition (Part 1)	Importance and function of food, basic concepts in nutrition (Carbohydrates, Proteins, Vitamins); meal planning for infants and preschoolers; maternal health during pregnancy and lactation.
4. Organizing Child Care Services	Principles of setting up and managing a safe, stimulating pre-school/daycare center; planning physical space and equipment; administrative skills and record-keeping.

 

 Pedagogy, Practice, and Special Needs

 

The second half shifts focus to practical implementation, teaching strategies, and addressing specific challenges.

Area of Study	Key Topics Covered
5. Curriculum and Pedagogy	Designing a developmentally appropriate curriculum; teaching methods using storytelling, art, music, and drama; promoting early literacy (language) and numeracy (math) skills through activity-based learning.
6. Child Health and Nutrition (Part 2)	Common childhood illnesses, their prevention and management (including immunization schedules); first aid and handling emergencies; understanding malnutrition and growth charts.
7. Children with Special Needs & Inclusion	Introduction to different disabilities and learning challenges; importance of early intervention; inclusive education practices for integrating children with special needs into the mainstream classroom.
8. Engaging with Parents and Community	Importance of parent-teacher partnerships; strategies for effective communication, parent counselling, and community involvement in ECCE programs.

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 Essential Practical and Project Components

 

A 1-year Diploma places a high emphasis on practical skills, which are often weighted equally with the theory papers.

Practical Component	Description
Supervised Practicum / Internship	A mandatory field placement (e.g., 20-45 working days or 120+ hours) in an operational preschool, kindergarten, or Anganwadi center. This is where you conduct supervised lessons and observe children.
Lesson Planning & Teaching Aids	Developing age-appropriate lesson plans for various themes and activities. Creating stimulating teaching-learning materials (TLMs) and toys from low-cost materials.
Observation and Case Study	Carrying out detailed observations of a single child or a group to document their development, needs, and behaviors.
Project Work	A final project which may involve designing a complete annual curriculum plan, setting up a mock classroom, or analyzing a community's ECCE needs.

This diploma provides a strong, quick-entry pathway into the Early Childhood sector, preparing you primarily for roles like Preschool Teacher, Daycare Worker, or Assistant Teacher.