1.1.1: Autism Spectrum Disorder

The purpose of this module is to introduce the topic of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) as it relates to the birth to five population. The learning resources provided are designed to be used in both pre-service and in-service to facilitate integration of the wealth of ASD information. This module focuses on the potential causes, prevalence, early signs, diagnosis, and eligibility, treatment/therapies, and evidence-based practices offered to young children with ASD and their families.

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1.1.2: Genetics: Chromosome Deletions and Abnormalities

Students will be able to identify what a chromosome deletion and abnormality are, the traits chromosome deletions have in common, and the lifelong impacts of individuals and families who have chromosome deletions and abnormalities. Contemporary issues surrounding chromosome deletions and abnormalities will be addressed, including, but not limited to family lifestyle, early childhood development and learning, and an overview of chromosome deletions. Students will be assessed through activities, reflection papers, and presentations.

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1.1.3: Genetics: Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders

This course is designed to provide students with information about Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD), the leading cause of preventable intellectual disabilities in the United States. Students will learn about etiology, characteristic presentations, and individual variation within the FASD umbrella. They will gain knowledge of assessment, curriculum, instruction, and intervention strategies to support their decision-making when serving children with FASD and their families. Students will learn how to apply knowledge of normative developmental sequences and variations to guide assessment and instruction decisions. Additionally, contextual societal and family-based factors will be addressed to promote student awareness and competency for preventative public health initiatives related to prenatal alcohol exposure, especially those which require interdisciplinary collaboration.

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1.1.6: Intellectual Disability

The purpose of this introductory module is to provide information on characteristics, classification, and prevalence of intellectual disabilities in children. This module aims to expand knowledge base and capacity in pre-professionals, educators, and service providers. This module can also be used for faculty to adapt to use as course materials.

1.1.7 Motor Disabilities

The purpose of this module is to introduce topics relevant to families and their child(ren) (ages birth to 5-year-old) with a diagnosis of Spina Bifida or Muscular Dystrophy. Included in this module are learning resources intended for early intervention specialists and early childhood educators. Topics explored include etiology, diagnosis, prevalence, educational supports, and medical and therapeutic treatments for young children with Spina Bifida/Muscular Dystrophy and their families, This module is intended for pre-service and current professionals working with infants to 5-year-old children in the context of early intervention and/or early childhood education settings. The content of this module will

  1. identify critical issues for caregivers and their young child(ren) who have a diagnosis of Spina Bifida or Muscular Dystrophy,
  2. provide evidence-based understanding about each respective diagnosis, and
  3. engage participants via interactive, participatory teaching methods appropriate for a wide range of adult learning styles.

Specifically, the module is designed to teach higher education faculty, students currently enrolled in early childhood professional training programs, and early childhood professionals. The module may be modified at any point throughout the course series to best attend to and tailor the learning needs of the group.

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1.1.8: Prader-Willi Syndrome and Angelman Syndrome

The purpose of this module is to provide a general overview of chromosomes and genomic imprinting as well as a basic understanding of two related but distinct imprinting disorders: Angelman syndrome and Prader-Willi syndrome. Angelman syndrome and Prader-Willi syndrome are two conditions that occur from abnormalities on the same section of chromosome 15. While the two disorders do share some features, their presentations are dramatically different. Following completion of this module, participants will have a basic understanding of the genetic basis, diagnosis, features, and treatments of Angelman syndrome and Prader-Willi syndrome.
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1.1.9: Rett Syndrome

The purpose of this module is to increase participants’ comprehensive understanding of Rett syndrome. This course will explore the biological, psychological, and social implications of Rett syndrome, centering the individual and family systems. In completing this module, participants are expected to gain an understanding of the diagnostic process and genetic etiology of Rett syndrome. Participants will learn how Rett syndrome affects different body systems and their functional implications. Throughout the module, participants will be asked to reflect upon the importance of early intervention and goals for various related service team members. The use of a case study and various multimedia examples will emphasize the family perspectives and experiences of Rett syndrome.

1.1.10: Sensory Impairments

The purpose of this module is to introduce the basics of sensory impairments including hearing impairment, vision impairment, and deaf-blindness. The module also covers intervention considerations regarding the variations across developmental domains, educational considerations and accommodations. Learners will understand family centered practices in early intervention for children with sensory impairment as well as become familiar with policies and resources for families and providers.

1.1.11: Traumatic Brain Injury

The purpose of this module is to introduce the basics of traumatic brain injury types and the history and laws that influence the services provided to children diagnosed as having a traumatic brain injury, including the treatment, assessment, placement of children birth to 5. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines Traumatic Brain Injury as “an injury that affects how the brain works. It may be caused by a: bump, blow, or jolt to the head, or penetrating injury to the head.” A TBI can have a profound impact on an individual’s life in one or more of the following areas: interpersonal, social, and occupational functioning. The impact of a TBI does not end with the individual, it can also influence their family and community.