Description
This diploma program is designed to prepare students
for working in the early childhood and education
field. Its objective is to provide the students/childcare
workers with valuable knowledge, skills and
experience to pursue employment as Assistants in day
care or early learning centers. During the program,
participants will be exposed to the responsibilities of an
early childhood assistant and opportunities to perform
those responsibilities. The program also covers the
foundational skills needed for those seeking to move
into an Early Childhood Educator program.
Program Notes
Tuition fees include student manuals and all other course
materials. Financial assistance may be available for those
who qualify.
Graduation Requirements:
Achieve a minimum pass mark for each individual modules
of 70%; successfully complete all practicum placement
requirements; Maintain current Standard First Aid and
Level C CPR certification; Pass the ECA Final
Comprehensive Theory Examination administered by
NACC
Career Opportunities
This program provides the student with a range of skills and
knowledge required to assist in day care or early
learning centres. Employment opportunities for Early
Childhood Assistant program graduates reside in public
and private day care/childcare or early learning centres.
Admission Requirement
- Grade 12 or equivalent or mature student status
- Must pass a literacy test
- A mathematical aptitude test is recommended for all potential
students
- Medical Certificate (Immunization Form) is required
indicating that the student is fit to undertake the program and
has up- to-date immunizations.
- Students must complete Standard First Aid and Level C CPR
prior to practicum placement
- Vulnerable Police Check (Clearance) of Criminal Record
– Must be produced within 30 days of starting the program.
- Two different references related to employment or volunteer
work completed in the early childcare field
Core Modules
- Foundations of Early Childhood Education
- Communications
- Infant and Child Development
- Observation Skills
- Health Safety and Nutrition
- Child, Family and Community
- Practicum I
- Introduction to Sociology
- Play-Based Learning Strategies
- Language and Literacy
- Introduction to Psychology
- Guiding Children’s Behaviour
- Creating Inclusive Environments
- Special Needs
- Practicum II
Personal Attributes Required
To be successful as an Early Childhood Assistant, individuals must possess the ability to:
- Be professional, punctual, dependable and trustworthy; a good team player
- Have good oral communication skills, including listening skills
- Be friendly, enthusiastic and energetic
- Use good observation and supervision skills
- Be respectful, courteous, patient and caring
- Show interest in and appreciation for children
- Demonstrate good time management and organizational skills
- Model good behaviour and attitude
- Follow confidentiality guidelines
Duties and Responsibilities
- Assist and participate in the day to day operations of a childcare centre or early learning centre
-
Help to provide a nurturing, caring environment in which young children can thrive
- Understand the physical, emotional and intellectual development of children from infancy to age 6
-
Maintain a professional approach while observing and guiding children throughout the day
-
Demonstrate effective communication skills with parents, children and co-workers
-
Provide opportunities to enhance children’s self-esteem during daily activities
-
Encourage socialization of children as they play and experience things together
-
Be knowledgeable in related health and safety issues during daily operations
-
Understand nutritional requirements of young children as they relate to daily meal planning and assisting with meal time
- Supervise children during indoor and outdoor play, and during rest periods
-
Lead children in activities by telling stories, teaching songs and preparing craft material
-
Guide and assist children in the development of proper eating, dressing and toilet habits
-
Attend staff meetings to discuss progress and problems with children
-
Prepare and serve snack
-
Assist the supervisor in keeping records
-
Maintain day care equipment and assist in housekeeping duties
Method of Delivery
Combination of:
- Instructor-led, Hybrid
- Practicum