The following courses are offered for Mars Area High School students as part of the school's Family & Consumer Science curriculum:

Child Development I (869) Full Year - 1 Credit

Prerequisite: Junior or senior with a cumulative QPA of at least 2.0 who has a good classroom attendance record and exemplary behavior.

Course Description: This course is designed for students interested in learning about and working with preschool-aged children, particularly those considering a career working with children or related fields. During the first twelve (12) weeks, students will study the physical, emotional, social, and cognitive development of children from conception through age one (1). For the remainder of the year, students will apply their knowledge by participating as teachers in the Planet Preschool classroom, gaining hands-on experience in planning and leading developmentally appropriate activities.

Child Development II (872) Full Year - 1 Credit

Prerequisite: Must have earned credit in Child Development I. Students must have a cumulative QPA of at least 2.0, a good classroom attendance record, exemplary behavior, and teacher approval.

Course Description: This course is for the student who is interested in furthering their learning about children and is considering a career as an educator. The focus of the class will be continuing to learn about children 3- 5 years old, with an emphasis on acquiring teaching skills through participation as a teacher in Planet Preschool. Major projects for this class are a curriculum unit and an observation journal.