The purposes of this course are to 1) introduce students to principles of child development that will guide the provision of music education for young children (birth through age 8) and 2) investigate the landscape of early childhood education and the educational theories that underlie current approaches to early childhood education. Particular emphasis will be placed on the application of concepts to music teaching and learning. Learning activities will include instructor lectures, guest lectures, readings, and discussions. Students will also conduct no fewer than two observations in early childhood settings.