Early Childhood Assistant Diploma

Course Duration:

780 hrs. Instructor Led Training
500 hrs. in class
280 hrs. of work placement

Admission Requirements:

Grade 12 or mature student status.

English fluency (level 3 ESL minimum). Clear Criminal Reference Check.Fitness to complete placement.Update immunization record.

Graduation Requirements:

Students must achieve an overall 60% average. Students who achieve 90% have an honours designation on their diploma.

Program Overview:

Our Nationally Certified diploma program allows graduates the freedom to work in the Early Childhood Profession across Canada. The Early Childhood Assistant program was developed to equip childcare workers with valuable knowledge, skills and experience for employment as Assistants in day care or early learning centres. It was designed to give students an overview of the responsibilities of an early childcare assistant and opportunities to perform those responsibilities. In addition to covering early childhood development, program planning, communication and other vital topics in childcare, the program also includes the role of computers in a childcare setting and how to use this tool to enhance the development in children.

Career Opportunities:

Early Childhood Educator Assistant
Child Care Worker
Child Care Assistant
Day Care Worker
Day Care Teacher
Preschool Teaching Assistant
Infant Day Care Worker
Nursery School Assistant Teacher
Preschool Helper
Home Care Provider
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Course Structure

Role of the Childcare Worker

This module covers the principles of professionalism in the childcare field. It includes manner, dress, attitude and the importance of the Childcare Assistant in a child's daycare experience and development.

Child Development

This module covers the multifaceted aspects of a child's development including physical, social, intellectual, emotional and moral components. An in-depth exploration of the complexity of child development is undertaken.

Guiding Children

This module covers concepts of enhancing child based play, encouraging age appropriate behaviours and using a variety of effective guidance techniques. Based on the day-to-day operations of a childcare facility, the theory and practical application of these concepts are observed and discussed.

Observation Skills

Course work covers the skills required to observe children effectively. Written observations are made in a variety of settings and circumstances. Students draw from their practical experiences to add to the module. Pitfalls and problems with observation techniques are discussed.

Program Planning

The students are introduced to the diverse components of effective program planning. Incorporated into program planning are a variety of activities that aid in a child's overall healthy development. The importance of dramatic play, circle time and problem solving activities are discussed.

Children and Technology

A variety of children's software programs are examined to evaluate/assess the effectiveness of this medium for child development. Students have an opportunity to review programs and learn about their appropriate application in an early learning environment.

Health and Safety

Health and safety standards and applications are studied and discussed in this critically important module. Students learn about healthy environments and how to educate children in managing their own good health habits. Child abuse recognition and prevention procedures are examined and sample policies are reviewed.

Nutrition

This module covers the theory and application of balanced, healthy nutrition for children O to 6. Basic food handling principles are discussed, while recipes are reviewed and assessed. Menu planning and compiling a resource of appropriate recipes and menus are incorporated.

Communication Skills

The emphases in this module are on developing the skills to communicate in a clear, concise, articulate manner in both written and oral form. A variety of topics are included i.e. two way communication, listening skills, grammar, pelling, written notes and report completion.

Introduction to Technology

This module is designed to introduce the student to basic computer hardware, software, and uses. It provides the basics in using computers to complete assignments and essays. Additionally, it provides a good foundation for the module Children and Technology.

First Aid and CPR

Upon the successful completion of this module, the student will have fulfilled the requirements for Standard First Aid and Level C CPR certification.

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