Created in 2007 by the Pennsylvania Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL), The Pennsylvania Key implements the work and supports the policies developed and managed by OCDEL. Learn More. >
Created in 2007 by the Pennsylvania Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL), The Pennsylvania Key implements the work and supports the policies developed and managed by OCDEL. Learn More. >Enrollment is now open for the Mid-Summer 2025 online Child Care Health Advocate course (EARL 160) offered by Northampton College. This unique three-credit hour college course is taught remotely over 9 weeks: June 2 through Aug 4, 2025, and prepares the Child Care Practitioner to function in the role of a Child Care Health Advocate (CCHA). The course addresses 15 different health and safety modules as a resource for childcare directors, teachers, assistant teachers, and childcare 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 childcare health consultant.
In partnership with the Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL), tuition assistance is available for childcare facility staff currently employed in Pennsylvania. Space is limited; register early to be sure you have a place for the upcoming term. Please access this flyer for a survey here to start the enrollment process for an OCDEL-supported slot. All Pennsylvania early childhood staff including directors, teachers, assistant teachers, and family childcare home providers are eligible to enroll. OCDEL will cover all tuition-related fees, books, and materials for the course (valued at over $1,000).
The course is intended to enable students to meet Standard 1.3.2.7 Qualifications and Responsibilities for Health Advocates from Caring for Our Children: National Health and Safety Performance Standards for Early Care and Education Programs. It offers a unique opportunity for Child Care Practitioners to acquire academic credit that may be applicable toward college degrees and has received accolades from previously enrolled students. Credits from this course can also be used to renew director credentials. Questions regarding course content can be directed to ecels@paaap.org. Register today for this exciting opportunity!