MSDE offers a range of training courses to help providers earn clock hours. Visit Thinkport.org to sign up for any course listed below.

For All Child Care Providers

Developmental Screening Overview

Explore the purpose and benefits of the developmental screening process and learn how to conduct routine developmental screenings on children birth through kindergarten entry age. Learners will evaluate MSDE-recommended developmental screening tools, examine the referral process, review effective communication strategies with families, and learn how to administer and score the recommended screening tools.
Core of Knowledge: Child Development (2 hours); Professionalism (2 hours)

For Family Child Care Providers

4 Core of Knowledge clock hours per course

Understanding Child Development

Examine several theories of child development and how to apply these theories to support best practices in child care.
Core of Knowledge: Child Development

Curriculum Development

Examine curriculum development, Developmentally Appropriate Practice (DAP) and effective planning. Learn how to apply different curriculum development strategies to support best practices in child care.
Core of Knowledge: Curriculum Development

Professionalism: Owning Your Own Business

Examine the importance of professionalism in family child care and learn about the responsibilities of running your own child care business.  Study appropriate supervision, COMAR and effective communication with parents. Learn how to write a business plan and develop appropriate policies and procedures. 
Core of Knowledge: Professionalism

Building an Inclusive Program

Examine child development and the importance of early intervention for children with special needs. Learn to recognize signs of potential developmental delays and how to plan appropriate adaptations to build an inclusive program.
Core of Knowledge: Special Needs 

Building Community Connections

Examine the role of community in child development and explore useful resources. Learn how to build positive relationships with families, how cultural influences shape the community and how to build a culturally relevant program.
Core of Knowledge: Community

Creating a Safe and Healthy Family Care Program

Examine the important roles of healthy routines, safety measures and nutritious meal planning in the family care home. Learn ways to prevent the spread of illness, how to respond to emergency situations, and how to plan a healthy menu for children of different ages. 
Core of Knowledge: Health, Safety and Nutrition

For Center-based Providers

3 Core of Knowledge clock hours per course

Your Career as a Child Care Center Aide

Learn relevant COMAR state regulations and see best practices applied in a child care setting. Learners gain valuable knowledge of ethical practices and standards in child care along with pertinent program responsibilities.
Core of Knowledge: Professionalism

Child Care Directors: Understanding Your Role and Responsibilities 

Learn the functions and responsibilities of a Center Director and gain knowledge in program design, staffing, financial matters, program safety, COMAR state regulations, as well as admission and enrollment policies.
Core of Knowledge: Professionalism

Wellness Policies in Your Child Care Center

Learn strategies and identify resources for successful implementation of wellness policies. Learners follow step-by-step guidance to write policy statements and goals, conduct nutrition and physical activity self-assessments, as well as find tips for involving families in wellness activities and modeling healthy choices.
Core of Knowledge: Professionalism (1 hour); Health, Safety and Nutrition (2 hours)