In order to improve the early experience of young children, an early childhood studies program might be jointly developed by the department of human and family resources and the department of curriculum and instruction.

The proposed program, which would offer a bachelor of science degree in early childhood studies in either department, was presented to the Council on Instruction Thursday by Nancy Vedral, Curriculum and Insruction chairman.

However, Ray Yang, human and family resources chairman, asked the council to table the proposal until he had time to gain additional support from his department.

The curriculum for the program would draw existing courses and resources from the two departments and colleges. The program is designed for students who are preparing for entry-level professional careers related to the development and education of children through age eight.

Although the concept of the proposed program was approved by the College of Education and the College of Professional Studies curriculum committees, Yang said the department of human and family resources did not have sufficient time to discuss the new program. “As a new and unique program, it is almost imperative that we come up with a rock-solid proposal,” he said.

Vedral agreed there were problems to address in the proposal, but pointed out the development of the program was essential because state certification requirements are going to change in July 1988. A separate early childhood certification would be required for those teaching youngsters aged one to eight, she said.

Students already in the early childhood program will be unable to receive their certification without the new program because of the change in requirements. “There will be no grandfathering,” Vedral said.

One concern about the proposal was whether the childhood development emphasis, offered in the department of human and family resources, would be included in the program.

The College of Education approved the proposal understanding that the childhood development emphasis would be eliminated while the College of Professional Studies approved the proposal understanding that the emphasis would remain, said Lida Barrett, associate provost.

The council voted to table the proposal until its next meeting in two weeks. “It (the program) is a wonderful and encouraging idea, but it will not get anywhere if half the team does not support it, ” said Joanne Fox, council member.