New Early Childhood Education Courses Focus on Trauma-Informed Teaching
Monterey Peninsula College is expanding its Early Childhood Education offerings with three new courses designed to help educators better understand child development, trauma-informed practices, and neuroscience-based teaching strategies. These courses provide students with practical tools to support children’s learning, emotional regulation, and overall well-being in educational settings.
ECED 74B: Neurodevelopment & Trauma - Spring 2026
This course offers students a comprehensive understanding of how adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), trauma and toxic stress impact brain development, learning, and behavior, emphasizing a non-stigmatizing, inclusive approach. By exploring the connections between trauma and resilience, students will be equipped to support equitable and trauma-informed practices that promote healing and growth.
ECED 74C: Neuroscience of Teaching - Spring 2027
This course explores brain-based (neuroscience-informed) teaching strategies to support effective and responsive instruction. Students will develop a deep understanding of trauma-informed care in early childhood education and its impact on learning and behavior. Through a relationship-centered approach, students will design safe, supportive learning environments and apply strategies that address the brain’s three states to promote emotional regulation and prosocial development.
ECED 74L: Trauma Informed Application - Fall 2027
This course is an application/lab as a cumulative effect of completing ECED 74A, ECED 74B, and ECED 74C. Students will put into practice everything they have learned in the first three courses. In a case study format, students will practice newly learned brain-based trauma-informed teaching practices for 7 weeks under the supervision of the instructor. Students will document implementation plan, collect data on progress in learning and behavior. Students will also keep a reflective journal for personal and professional growth.