Best colleges for early childhood education programs?

I'm super passionate about working with young kids and looking into early childhood education programs. What are some of the top colleges I should consider for this field? Any schools known for strong support or great practical experiences?

There are a number of colleges known for strong early childhood education programs.

1. Vanderbilt University's Peabody College has an excellent early childhood education program. They offer students numerous opportunities for hands-on, role-focused experiences in diverse settings.

2. University of Wisconsin - Madison has a well-recognized School of Education known for its programs in early childhood education. Their program places a strong emphasis on student-teacher placements for practical experience.

3. University of Georgia’s Mary Frances Early College of Education is another great choice. Their early childhood education department offers a robust curriculum, and their graduates are highly sought after across the state.

4. Teachers College at Columbia University is a graduate program, but it does offer a unique program of study that prepares students for work with pre-kindergarten to third-grade children in diverse learning environments.

5. The Lynch School of Education at Boston College has an excellent undergrad program where students can earn licensure upon graduation to teach preK through second grade.

Remember to visit these colleges' respective websites to get a detailed picture of their program. It's also important to consider factors beyond the program itself, like school size, location, and finances, among other things. Reach out to current students or alumni if possible, to get a firsthand account of their experiences.