Child Development Field Experience Requirements

As a Child Development student, you will be expected to complete field experience observation and participation in childcare programs throughout your CHD courses. According to the Child Care Licensing and Performance Standards for Day Care and Nighttime Centers Regulations and Procedures from the Alabama Department of Human Resources, staff including substitutes and volunteers must meet the following minimum qualifications for records (page 42-43).

Required records include:

  • DHR staff application (DH-CDC-1947)
  • Three references (DHR-CDC-1948)
  • Request for Clearance of State Central Registry on Child Abuse/Neglect (DHR-DFC-1598)
  • Criminal History Background Check including Alabama Bureau of Investigations Fingerprint Clearance (Code of Alabama 1975, Title 38, Chapter 13, effective November 1, 2000)
  • Medical examination including TB Test (DHR-CDC-737)
  • CPR certification

Note: Basic Cardiopulmonary Life Support (BCLS) certification is required prior to participating in laboratory experiences at childcare centers. Students can take the course through the college by registering for EMS 100 concurrently with the initial registration in Child Development (CHD) courses.

Note: Students that have a current, valid CDA Certificate will receive course credit for CHD 100, CHD 201, and CHD 206.