Early Childhood Assistant
This program is approved as a vocational program under the Ontario Career College
Act,2005. The Early Childhood Assistant (ECA) program is designed to provide workers with the essential knowledge, skills, and experience needed to work as assistants in daycare centers or early learning environments. This program offers students a comprehensive understanding of the responsibilities of an early childhood assistant, along with the opportunity to gain practical experience through two hands-on practicums.
The ECA program lays the foundational skills necessary for those interested in pursuing further education in an Early Childhood Educator program.
KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS GAINED
Our ECA program is tailored to equip students with the skills and knowledge required to pursue careers as Early Childhood Assistants in childcare centers, daycare facilities, or as child support providers at home. The program includes two practicums, offering on-the-job training at designated childcare centers—one focused on infants/toddlers and the other on preschool-aged children. This hands-on experience allows students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings and enhances their employability in the field. Additionally, the program supports individuals who aspire to start their own childcare centers or in-home childcare businesses by providing a solid foundation in early childhood education.THIS PROGRAM IS OFFERED IN A HYBRID FORMAT
Program Overview
Early Childhood Assistant – This program provides students with both theoretical knowledge and practical training in essential early childhood education courses.
Foundations of Early Childhood Education – This course introduces students to the field of Early Child Care and Education by examining the historical development of early learning and its influence on modern, play-based approaches to childcare. Students explore theoretical frameworks for working with young children and families in diverse communities, focusing on high-quality childcare standards, relevant legislation, and the early learning framework.
Communications – Students are introduced to professional communication skills, which will be further developed throughout the program. This course covers topics related to professional communication, reflective practice, and collaboration, helping students build the skills to establish inclusive relationships within the Early Childhood Education (ECE) community.
Infant and Child Development – This course provides a comprehensive understanding of child development from conception through early childhood, examining developmental theories and their application in early childhood education. The course covers physical, cognitive, and socio-emotional development and discusses developmentally appropriate practices to support children’s growth.
Observation Skills – Students learn the role of the observer and various methods for documenting child development. Ethical standards in observation, along with techniques for writing accurate, objective reports, are covered, as well as the use of observation tools.
Health, Safety, and Nutrition – This course addresses the health, safety, and nutritional needs of children and educators. Students explore how to create safe learning environments, promote children’s well-being, and prevent illness. The course also examines current health and safety legislation, including the Child Care and Early Years Act, 2014.
Child, Family, and Community – Students explore strategies for building positive partnerships between educators and families, focusing on communication, collaboration, and family involvement. The course examines diverse family structures, cultural differences, and social issues in child-rearing, emphasizing inclusivity and anti-bias practices.
Introduction to Sociology – This course introduces sociological concepts, research, and theories, providing students with tools to explore social structures, cultural communities, and institutions in Canadian society. Key topics include family, ethnicity, class, community, social change, multiculturalism, and immigration.
Play-Based Early Learning Strategies – This course focuses on play-based curriculum development, exploring strategies that support inclusive and holistic learning in early childhood. Students learn how to design creative arts and sensory activities, guided by an early learning curriculum framework, to enhance children’s development.
Language and Literacy – Students explore theories of language acquisition in early childhood and how to apply teaching methods within a play-based curriculum. The course highlights the importance of early social, cultural, and linguistic interactions in fostering language and literacy development and helps students integrate these principles into program planning.
Introduction to Psychology for ECAs – This course provides an overview of psychological theories and research, examining individual behavior, human development, learning, and social psychology. Students gain an understanding of the factors influencing behavior and learn about research methodologies and psychological measurement.
Guiding Children’s Behaviour – This course examines research and strategies for managing young children’s behavior in early childhood programs. Students explore discipline within a developmental framework, focusing on respecting diversity, understanding behavioral concerns, and applying developmentally appropriate guidance methods.
Creating Inclusive Programs – Students learn to design inclusive, developmentally appropriate curricula for both typical and atypical child development. The course covers strategies for creating responsive, meaningful play-based environments and using tools like Individualized Intervention Plans to ensure all children’s needs are met.
Special Needs – This course focuses on adapting the curriculum to support children with disabilities and special needs. Students learn about the educator’s role in planning and providing appropriate support for children and families, in alignment with current legislation and evidence-based practices.
Practicums I and II – Students participate in two field placements at licensed daycare centers, early learning centers, or kindergarten classrooms. These practicums provide hands-on experience in working with infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and school-age children, enabling students to apply theoretical knowledge and develop the skills necessary for effective work with children, families, and coworkers.
Some common job titles you can apply for include: Child Care Worker Assistant, Daycare Child Care Worker, Daycare Helper, Daycare Supervisor, Daycare Teacher, Daycare Worker, Early Childhood Assistant, Early Childhood Worker, Early Childhood Educator Assistant, Early Childhood Program Staff Assistant, and Preschool Helper.
