PROGRAM OBJECTIVE:

The Early Childcare Assistant Diploma program from Canadian International Career College is developed to equip childcare workers with valuable knowledge, skills and experience for employment as Assistants in day care or early learning centers. It is 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.

COURSE OUTLINE:

Role of the Childcare Worker – 40 Hours

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.

Introduction to Technology – 40 Hours

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.

Observation Skills – 40 Hours

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 eh module. Pitfalls and problems with observation techniques are discussed.

Child Development – 40 Hours
 
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.

Reinforcement and Conflict Resolution - 40 Hours

This module covers concepts of enhancing child based play, encouraging age appropriate behaviors 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.

Program Planning – 40 Hours

The students are introduced to the diverse components of effective program planning. The importance of dramatic play, circle time and problem solving activities are discussed.

Children and Technology – 40 Hours

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.

Communication Skills – 40 Hours

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, spelling, written notes and report completion.

Health and Safety – 40 Hours
 
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 – 40 Hours

This module covers the theory and application of balanced, healthy nutrition for children from 0 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.

Practicum – 200 Hours (Precepted)

In the Early Childcare Assistant program, students spend a reasonable number of hours in a practical placement. The practicum is provided in the privet and public day-care and child-care centers. It gives students the opportunity to gain knowledge and skills through experiential earning under the supervision of a manager of the facility staff. Frequently, this may result in the student being offered a position.