Early Childhood Education & Child Care - Online Credential Boosters

This course provides essential information that every child care and education professional needs to know about the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Go beyond the definition of ADA to learn inclusionary best practices, strategies and resources for implementing an early childhood or school age environment that is inclusive to all children and families. MSDE Core of Knowledge: 0.3 CEUs.

These classes are designed to help you get your program aligned with Maryland EXCELS and to help you reach higher Maryland Child Care Credential levels. Credential Boosters are classes that are identified by Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) in the staff credential modifications for levels 2, 3, and 4. 

Note the following about these courses:

• You can complete online Credential Boosters at your own pace, with instructor guidance; courses are 2, 3, or 5 hours. Course hours are listed in the course descriptions below.
• You may register for a class anytime between Aug 25 and Dec 5, 2025. Final deadline for course work is Dec 12, 2025.
• Once you have registered, it is your responsibility to email ChildcareClasses@HowardCC.edu to receive an automated reply with login instructions.
• You will need access to a computer, the internet, and email to take an online Credential Boosters course.
• No refunds. No assignment deadline extensions.

Take effective steps to develop professional and positive relationships with staff, children, families and the community through the practice of conflict resolution strategies. Examine typical situations that may lead to conflict, how to address conflict in a professional manner and promote resolution. MSDE Core of Knowledge: 0.3 CEUs.

These classes are designed to help you get your program aligned with Maryland EXCELS and to help you reach higher Maryland Child Care Credential levels. Credential Boosters are classes that are identified by Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) in the staff credential modifications for levels 2, 3, and 4. 

Note the following about these courses:

• You can complete online Credential Boosters at your own pace, with instructor guidance; courses are 2, 3, or 5 hours. Course hours are listed in the course descriptions below.
• You may register for a class anytime between Aug 25 and Dec 5, 2025. Final deadline for course work is Dec 12, 2025.
• Once you have registered, it is your responsibility to email ChildcareClasses@HowardCC.edu to receive an automated reply with login instructions.
• You will need access to a computer, the internet, and email to take an online Credential Boosters course.
• No refunds. No assignment deadline extensions.

Increase your awareness and ability to work effectively with the diverse families in our community, by identifying and developing strategies that will promote cultural competency. Apply anti-bias, diversity and inclusion practices, promote child self-concept and esteem, and plan multi-cultural activities. MSDE Core of Knowledge: 0.3 CEUs.

These classes are designed to help you get your program aligned with Maryland EXCELS and to help you reach higher Maryland Child Care Credential levels. Credential Boosters are classes that are identified by Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) in the staff credential modifications for levels 2, 3, and 4. 

Note the following about these courses:

• You can complete online Credential Boosters at your own pace, with instructor guidance; courses are 2, 3, or 5 hours. Course hours are listed in the course descriptions below.
• You may register for a class anytime between Aug 25 and Dec 5, 2025. Final deadline for course work is Dec 12, 2025.
• Once you have registered, it is your responsibility to email ChildcareClasses@HowardCC.edu to receive an automated reply with login instructions.
• You will need access to a computer, the internet, and email to take an online Credential Boosters course.
• No refunds. No assignment deadline extensions.

This course looks closely at what the term Developmentally Appropriate Practices "DAP” really means in the context of working with children of all ages and abilities. Learn the national standards and the role of the teacher; including practical strategies you can apply to support each child's learning and development at every age and stage. MSDE Core of Knowledge: Curric 3 hrs, 0.3 CEUs.

These classes are designed to help you get your program aligned with Maryland EXCELS and to help you reach higher Maryland Child Care Credential levels. Credential Boosters are classes that are identified by Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) in the staff credential modifications for levels 2, 3, and 4. 

Note the following about these courses:

• You can complete online Credential Boosters at your own pace, with instructor guidance; courses are 2, 3, or 5 hours. Course hours are listed in the course descriptions below.
• You may register for a class anytime between Aug 25 and Dec 5, 2025. Final deadline for course work is Dec 12, 2025.
• Once you have registered, it is your responsibility to email ChildcareClasses@HowardCC.edu to receive an automated reply with login instructions.
• You will need access to a computer, the internet, and email to take an online Credential Boosters course.
• No refunds. No assignment deadline extensions.

Learn how to access the many helpful resources that are available right in our community that can benefit children and families, and how to be an advocate for parents and children with ongoing needs related to health, education and referral services. MSDE Core of Knowledge: 0.3 CEUs.

These classes are designed to help you get your program aligned with Maryland EXCELS and to help you reach higher Maryland Child Care Credential levels. Credential Boosters are classes that are identified by Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) in the staff credential modifications for levels 2, 3, and 4. 

Note the following about these courses:

• You can complete online Credential Boosters at your own pace, with instructor guidance; courses are 2, 3, or 5 hours. Course hours are listed in the course descriptions below.
• You may register for a class anytime between Aug 25 and Dec 5, 2025. Final deadline for course work is Dec 12, 2025.
• Once you have registered, it is your responsibility to email ChildcareClasses@HowardCC.edu to receive an automated reply with login instructions.
• You will need access to a computer, the internet, and email to take an online Credential Boosters course.
• No refunds. No assignment deadline extensions.

Maryland has identified the ERS environmental rating scales as a quality improvement tool for child care programs participating in MD EXCELS. Learn how the ERS can be used to evaluate the child care environment, identify strengths and areas needing improvement, and increase your program's quality. MSDE Core of Knowledge: Pro 3 hrs, aligns with MD EXCELS Program accreditation standard-quality rating levels 3–5. 0.3 CEUs.

These classes are designed to help you get your program aligned with Maryland EXCELS and to help you reach higher Maryland Child Care Credential levels. Credential Boosters are classes that are identified by Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) in the staff credential modifications for levels 2, 3, and 4. 

Note the following about these courses:

• You can complete online Credential Boosters at your own pace, with instructor guidance; courses are 2, 3, or 5 hours. Course hours are listed in the course descriptions below.
• You may register for a class anytime between Aug 25 and Dec 5, 2025. Final deadline for course work is Dec 12, 2025.
• Once you have registered, it is your responsibility to email ChildcareClasses@HowardCC.edu to receive an automated reply with login instructions.
• You will need access to a computer, the internet, and email to take an online Credential Boosters course.
• No refunds. No assignment deadline extensions.

The nutritional and physical needs of today's children are examined, and child care professionals gain skills to promote a healthy lifestyle and overall wellness throughout childhood. Topics include strategies to inform families about nutritional food items, and developing physical and large motor activities and games. MSDE Core of Knowledge: 0.3 CEUs.

These classes are designed to help you get your program aligned with Maryland EXCELS and to help you reach higher Maryland Child Care Credential levels. Credential Boosters are classes that are identified by Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) in the staff credential modifications for levels 2, 3, and 4. 

Note the following about these courses:

• You can complete online Credential Boosters at your own pace, with instructor guidance; courses are 2, 3, or 5 hours. Course hours are listed in the course descriptions below.
• You may register for a class anytime between Aug 25 and Dec 5, 2025. Final deadline for course work is Dec 12, 2025.
• Once you have registered, it is your responsibility to email ChildcareClasses@HowardCC.edu to receive an automated reply with login instructions.
• You will need access to a computer, the internet, and email to take an online Credential Boosters course.
• No refunds. No assignment deadline extensions.

Systematic, objective observation of children is key to evaluating their development and planning learning activities. Become equipped with observation and assessments tools, appropriate methods of collecting and interpreting information, and gain a better understanding of the purpose of on-going assessment. MSDE Core of Knowledge: Ch Dev 3 hrs, 0.3 CEUs.

These classes are designed to help you get your program aligned with Maryland EXCELS and to help you reach higher Maryland Child Care Credential levels. Credential Boosters are classes that are identified by Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) in the staff credential modifications for levels 2, 3, and 4. To view full course descriptions for the classes listed below, please visit HowardCC.edu/ChildCareCourses. Note the following about these courses:

• You can complete online Credential Boosters at your own pace, with instructor guidance; courses are 2, 3, or 5 hours. Course hours are listed in the course descriptions below.
• You may register for a class anytime between Aug 25 and Dec 5, 2025. Final deadline for course work is Dec 12, 2025.
• Once you have registered, it is your responsibility to email ChildcareClasses@HowardCC.edu to receive an automated reply with login instructions.
• You will need access to a computer, the internet, and email to take an online Credential Boosters course.
• No refunds. No assignment deadline extensions.

Become more prepared to plan for a fun and safe playground, and learn the role of the child care provider in supervising and implementing safety procedures, from age appropriate and accessible playground equipment to appropriate supervision, and safety checks. MSDE Core of Knowledge: 0.3 CEUs.

These classes are designed to help you get your program aligned with Maryland EXCELS and to help you reach higher Maryland Child Care Credential levels. Credential Boosters are classes that are identified by Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) in the staff credential modifications for levels 2, 3, and 4. 

Note the following about these courses:

• You can complete online Credential Boosters at your own pace, with instructor guidance; courses are 2, 3, or 5 hours. Course hours are listed in the course descriptions below.
• You may register for a class anytime between Aug 25 and Dec 5, 2025. Final deadline for course work is Dec 12, 2025.
• Once you have registered, it is your responsibility to email ChildcareClasses@HowardCC.edu to receive an automated reply with login instructions.
• You will need access to a computer, the internet, and email to take an online Credential Boosters course.
• No refunds. No assignment deadline extensions.

Gain an overview of positive child guidance and discipline by examining theory and best practices. Learn appropriate guidance techniques, internal and external factors that influence child behavior, and ways to partner with families to foster positive child guidance. MSDE Core of Knowledge: 0.3 CEUs.

These classes are designed to help you get your program aligned with Maryland EXCELS and to help you reach higher Maryland Child Care Credential levels. Credential Boosters are classes that are identified by Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) in the staff credential modifications for levels 2, 3, and 4. 

Note the following about these courses:

• You can complete online Credential Boosters at your own pace, with instructor guidance; courses are 2, 3, or 5 hours. Course hours are listed in the course descriptions below.
• You may register for a class anytime between Aug 25 and Dec 5, 2025. Final deadline for course work is Dec 12, 2025.
• Once you have registered, it is your responsibility to email ChildcareClasses@HowardCC.edu to receive an automated reply with login instructions.
• You will need access to a computer, the internet, and email to take an online Credential Boosters course.
• No refunds. No assignment deadline extensions.

This course is designed to provide child care and early childhood education professionals with an explanation of key concepts of curriculum planning and implementation, including frameworks, standards, guidelines, planning tools and state-approved curriculum resources aimed to promote quality programming and enhanced learning. MSDE Core of Knowledge: 0.3 CEUs.

These classes are designed to help you get your program aligned with Maryland EXCELS and to help you reach higher Maryland Child Care Credential levels. Credential Boosters are classes that are identified by Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) in the staff credential modifications for levels 2, 3, and 4. 

Note the following about these courses:

• You can complete online Credential Boosters at your own pace, with instructor guidance; courses are 2, 3, or 5 hours. Course hours are listed in the course descriptions below.
• You may register for a class anytime between Aug 25 and Dec 5, 2025. Final deadline for course work is Dec 12, 2025.
• Once you have registered, it is your responsibility to email ChildcareClasses@HowardCC.edu to receive an automated reply with login instructions.
• You will need access to a computer, the internet, and email to take an online Credential Boosters course.
• No refunds. No assignment deadline extensions.

Become informed about the Maryland state child care regulations related to appropriate supervision of children of all ages and stages and learn to take an active role and apply best practices to keep children playing and learning safely. MSDE Core of Knowledge: 0.3 CEUs.

These classes are designed to help you get your program aligned with Maryland EXCELS and to help you reach higher Maryland Child Care Credential levels. Credential Boosters are classes that are identified by Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) in the staff credential modifications for levels 2, 3, and 4. 

Note the following about these courses:

• You can complete online Credential Boosters at your own pace, with instructor guidance; courses are 2, 3, or 5 hours. Course hours are listed in the course descriptions below.
• You may register for a class anytime between Aug 25 and Dec 5, 2025. Final deadline for course work is Dec 12, 2025.
• Once you have registered, it is your responsibility to email ChildcareClasses@HowardCC.edu to receive an automated reply with login instructions.
• You will need access to a computer, the internet, and email to take an online Credential Boosters course.
• No refunds. No assignment deadline extensions.

Learn to make your program breastfeeding-friendly for families. Satisfies the MSDE breastfeeding support requirement for child care professionals. This course provides an overview of the state regulation, guidelines and resources to support the practice of breastfeeding and provides related resources for families within a child care program. MSDE Core of Knowledge: 3 hrs. HSN. 0.3 CEUs. 

This is a self-paced, online course. You may begin course work anytime between August 28 and December 1. Final deadline for course work is December 8.

More than ever, children with special needs are growing and learning in child care, and educators need strategies to enable all children with disabilities, delays or special needs to gain knowledge, skills and enthusiasm for learning. Learn the child care professional's role in supporting IEP/IFSPs, how to select materials, adapt instruction and provide a motivational environment for all. MSDE Core of Knowledge: 0.3 CEUs.

These classes are designed to help you get your program aligned with Maryland EXCELS and to help you reach higher Maryland Child Care Credential levels. Credential Boosters are classes that are identified by Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) in the staff credential modifications for levels 2, 3, and 4. 

Note the following about these courses:

• You can complete online Credential Boosters at your own pace, with instructor guidance; courses are 2, 3, or 5 hours. Course hours are listed in the course descriptions below.
• You may register for a class anytime between Aug 25 and Dec 5, 2025. Final deadline for course work is Dec 12, 2025.
• Once you have registered, it is your responsibility to email ChildcareClasses@HowardCC.edu to receive an automated reply with login instructions.
• You will need access to a computer, the internet, and email to take an online Credential Boosters course.
• No refunds. No assignment deadline extensions.

Look beyond the slide and climber to the many ways outdoor learning environments and play spaces can be used to support child development and learning. Topics include activity planning, environmental design, and selection of materials and equipment. MSDE Core of Knowledge: 0.3 CEUs.

These classes are designed to help you get your program aligned with Maryland EXCELS and to help you reach higher Maryland Child Care Credential levels. Credential Boosters are classes that are identified by Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) in the staff credential modifications for levels 2, 3, and 4. 

Note the following about these courses:

• You can complete online Credential Boosters at your own pace, with instructor guidance; courses are 2, 3, or 5 hours. Course hours are listed in the course descriptions below.
• You may register for a class anytime between Aug 25 and Dec 5, 2025. Final deadline for course work is Dec 12, 2025.
• Once you have registered, it is your responsibility to email ChildcareClasses@HowardCC.edu to receive an automated reply with login instructions.
• You will need access to a computer, the internet, and email to take an online Credential Boosters course.
• No refunds. No assignment deadline extensions.

Examine the components of professionalism that promote a successful work environment and relationships, including ethical codes of conduct, federal, state and local organizations that support development in child care and education. MSDE Core of Knowledge: 0.3 CEUs.

These classes are designed to help you get your program aligned with Maryland EXCELS and to help you reach higher Maryland Child Care Credential levels. Credential Boosters are classes that are identified by Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) in the staff credential modifications for levels 2, 3, and 4. 

Note the following about these courses:

• You can complete online Credential Boosters at your own pace, with instructor guidance; courses are 2, 3, or 5 hours. Course hours are listed in the course descriptions below.
• You may register for a class anytime between Aug 25 and Dec 5, 2025. Final deadline for course work is Dec 12, 2025.
• Once you have registered, it is your responsibility to email ChildcareClasses@HowardCC.edu to receive an automated reply with login instructions.
• You will need access to a computer, the internet, and email to take an online Credential Boosters course.
• No refunds. No assignment deadline extensions.