Practicum Experience

Discover, Engage, Grow

At the Family Development Center (FDC), practicum students gain meaningful, real-world experience in a high-quality early childhood education setting. Whether you're pursuing education, healthcare, or human services, your time here will deepen your understanding of child development while preparing you for the demands of your future career. 

Who can participate?

At the Family Development Center (FDC), practicum students gain meaningful, real-world experience in a high-quality early childhood education setting. Whether you're pursuing education, healthcare, or human services, your time here will deepen your understanding of child development while preparing you for the demands of your future career. 

We proudly welcome students from a variety of UCCS degree programs, including but not limited to: 

  • Inclusive Early Childhood Education 

  • Inclusive Elementary Education 

  • Secondary Education 

  • Pediatric Nursing 

  • Psychology 

  • Social Work 

  • Counseling 

  • Science/STEAM 

  • Office of Inclusive Services 

Flexible Practicum Formats

We offer a variety of experiences to meet your scheduling and academic needs:

  • Full Semester Placements

  • Part-Semester Experiences

  • Weekly Visits

  • One-Time Observations

  • Paid & Unpaid Roles

Whether you're fulfilling academic requirements or building your résumé, the FDC offers a path that fits. 

Purpose and Experience

Hands-On Learning

At the FDC, you'll move beyond the textbook. Practicum students gain hands-on experience in real classroom settings—applying theory to practice, while building confidence and skill in early childhood education.

Observation and Participation

You'll have the opportunity to observe experienced teachers, participate in classroom activities, and assist with daily routines and tasks. These experiences are designed to be immersive and educational.

Guidance from Lead Teachers

Our lead teachers oversee all classroom activities and serve as mentors, modeling effective teaching strategies, classroom management, and child engagement techniques.

Student Involvement

You’ll be encouraged to interact with children, support teachers during group and individual activities, and take an active role in the learning environment. 

What You'll See and Do

The FDC is rooted in high-quality early childhood education principles:

  • Low Child-to-Adult Ratios – Creating more opportunities for meaningful interaction and responsive care

  • Developmentally Appropriate Practice – Activities tailored to support cognitive, social/emotional, and physical development

  • Play-Based Learning – Children learn best through play, hands-on experiences, and engaging activities that build foundational skills

  • Inclusive Classrooms – Activities are adapted to meet the needs of all learners

  • Rich Language & Literacy Support – From story time to writing centers, students are immersed in literacy-rich environments

  • Behavioral & Emotional Guidance – Our approach is grounded in Conscious Discipline, which teaches children how to identify emotions, use self-calming strategies, and build emotional intelligence.

Understanding Child Development

Our practicum experiences help students explore how child development theory comes to life in the classroom:

  • Recognize developmental stages and how to set realistic expectations

  • Adapt activities to meet each child’s individual needs

  • Understand the critical role that secure, loving adult-child relationships play in brain development

  • Observe how environments and interactions can nurture social, emotional, and cognitive growth 

Professional Expectations

To ensure a positive experience for all, we ask practicum students to follow key guidelines:

  • Professional Conduct – No cell phone use in classrooms, maintain confidentiality, and follow all sanitation and safety procedures

  • Safety and Sensitivity – Be mindful of children's needs, especially our youngest learners, and maintain a nurturing and supportive environment

  • Collaborate and Ask Questions – Practicum is a learning opportunity—our lead teachers are here to support your growth 

Why the FDC?

You’re not just observing—you’re joining a community that values every interaction as a chance to nurture development. Our programs are built on research, intentional practice, and care. Practicum students leave with practical skills, lasting insight, and a deeper passion for the work they’re called to do.

“Every interaction with a child makes a powerful difference. At the FDC, you’re learning how to make that difference count.” 

Ready to Start?

Contact UCCS Family Development Center Director to see when you can start.

Season Doebler
Phone: 719-255-3483
Email: sdoebler@uccs.edu

We can’t wait to support you on your journey.