Tuition Assistance Available for Spring 2025 Online Child Care Health Advocate Course

Enrollment is open for a spring 2025 online Child Care Health Advocate course offered by Northampton Community College.

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The three-credit hour college course (EARL 160) is taught remotely over the course of 14 weeks between Jan. 21 and May 12. The course prepares the child care practitioner to function in the role of a child care health advocate.

The class addresses 15 different health and safety modules as a resource for child care directors, teachers, assistant teachers, and child care practitioners. Participants will learn to assess, identify, and prioritize the health and safety needs of children and staff and will learn to collaborate with a registered nurse or licensed physician who serves as the facility’s child care health consultant. 

In partnership with the Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL), tuition assistance is available for child care facility staff currently employed in Pennsylvania.

Register Now

Those interested in the course should register early because space is limited. To start the enrollment process for an OCDEL-supported slot, fill out the online survey. All Pennsylvania early childhood staff - including directors, teachers, assistant teachers, and family child care home providers - are eligible to enroll. OCDEL will cover all tuition-related fees, books, and materials for the course (valued at more than $1,000).

The course is aimed at enabling students to meet Standard 1.3.2.7 Qualifications and Responsibilities for Health Advocates. It offers an opportunity for child care practitioners to acquire academic credit that may be applicable toward college degrees. Credits can also be used to renew director credentials.

Any questions about the course should be emailed to ecels@paaap.org.