All semester, students in Mrs. O’Brien’s Child Development 2 course have been practicing skills they can only learn in a classroom of early learners: coaching reading skills, cleaning sticky fingers, and everything in-between. 

These classroom visits are a part of Child Development 2’s required practicum, where students spend three of their class periods per week – 60 total hours – supporting teachers who work with children from birth to 3rd grade. CD2 students assist the same teacher all semester, allowing them to form the bonds and understanding of each child’s needs they would develop as a professional working in the field. 

“The best part was definitely just building relationships with all of the kids. It has definitely encouraged me to go into a field working with kids, either social work or pediatric occupational therapy!” said senior Layla Pickard.

The two weekdays students aren’t working alongside mentor teachers are spent in the WHS classroom, reflecting on the skills they’re developing in their practicum and building on the knowledge from CD1.

“They help me see things differently every day,” junior Kaitlyn Myers said of the students she worked with during her practicum. “I have gained a lot of patience and understanding for people of different backgrounds, and I have learned about the reasons behind why children act in various ways, which will be helpful later in my life as an elementary school teacher.”

Wenatchee High School Child Development courses are a part of CTE’s Family and Consumer Science program and the Early Childhood Education track. These hands-on courses teach students how to problem-solve, develop strong communication skills, work in teams, and demonstrate professionalism amongst peers. For additional information about available certifications and course offerings, visit the CTE webpage or contact program instructor Cori O’Brien.