Program Outline
Early Childhood Assistant - During this program of study, students gain both theoretical and
practical training in the required courses.
Foundations of Early Childhood Education - This course will introduce students to the field of
Early Child Care and Education through an investigation of the historical roots of early learning,
and how it has impacted the contemporary approach to play-based care. Students examine
theoretical approaches of working with young children and their families in a diverse community.
They examine the dimensions of high-quality childcare and components of current legislation.
Students explore the early learning framework.
Communications - This course offers an introduction to professional interpersonal
communication skills which will be further developed and practiced in subsequent courses. This
course explores topics related to professional communication, reflective practice and
collaboration. As a result of the learning outcomes of this course, students will gain the skills
necessary to establish inclusive relationships within the ECE community.
Infant and Child Development - Students develop a comprehensive understanding of child
development from conception through early childhood. They take a dynamic perspective on
developmental theories that apply to early childhood education. With a focus on whole child
development and education, the course will also examine the three major domains of young
children's physical, cognitive and socio-emotional development as well as connect to the
developmentally appropriate practice to promote children's development.
Observation Skills - This course introduces the role of the observer and various approaches to
observing development. Ethical standards for surveillance and documentation are discussed.
Writing concise, accurate and objective observations are introduced along with many observation
tools.
Health Safety and Nutrition - This course covers health, safety and nutritional needs of children
and early childhood educators. Students recognize the importance of safe learning environments
to support and promote children's health and well-being. Health promotion, prevention of illness,
occupational health and safety are discussed, and exploration focuses on the impact that educators
and childcare settings have on health and nutrition of children. Students review current legislation
in the Child Care and Early Years Act, 2014.
Child, Family and Community - Students study ways of forming positive partnerships between
families and educators. Strategies facilitating family involvement, effective collaboration and
communication skills with parents are defined. Current theories of parent education and issues in
child rearing are examined. Students understand children and families are unique. They explore
how to react and have an inclusive, welcoming and anti-bias environment for different family
structure, culture, socio-economic status, religion and ethnicity.
Introduction to Sociology - This course introduces students to the language and practice of
sociological inquiry. It examines basic concepts, research and theories in sociology, and uses them
to explore our everyday life experience and their relation to the cultural communities and social
institutions, in Canadian society. Students develop an appreciation of key groups and issues such as family, ethnic group, class, community, school, childcare, social change, women’s issues, social
organizations, multiculturalism and immigration.
Play-Based Early Learning Strategies - Students explore the foundations of play-based
curriculum specific to young children in early learning and care environments to foster and
facilitate inclusive, holistic learning and development. Students examine how an early learning
curriculum framework guides curriculum planning. Strategies are explored to support the design
of creative arts and sensory experiences. The course addresses planning for play. Knowledge and
skills prepare students for their practicum experiences and professional practice.
Language and Literacy - course provides theory related to language acquisition in the early
childhood years. Students learn the implementation of teaching techniques within a play-based
curriculum. They examine the importance of early experiences, such as social, cultural and
linguistic diversity interactions for facilitating the development of language and literacy skills.
Students apply language development theory to program planning for young children and establish
rich language and literacy practices.
Introduction to Psychology - This course provides an overview of the theoretical approaches and
empirical studies that have contributed to the nature of psychology. Students will acquire an
appreciation for research methodologies and for the range of influences that guide their own
behaviour and experience. Basic concepts and principles of individual behaviour are examined,
particularly those of human development, normal and abnormal behaviour, social psychology,
learning, perception, and psychological measurement.
Guiding Children's Behaviour - This course will explore current research and approaches in
managing and guiding young children's behaviour in early childhood programs. Guidance and
discipline are considered within a framework of child development and developmentally
appropriate practice. Methods including theoretical approaches, respecting diversity,
understanding vulnerabilities and analysis of behavioural concerns will be covered.
Guiding Children's Behaviour - This course will explore current research and approaches in
managing and guiding young children's behaviour in early childhood programs. Guidance and
discipline are considered within a framework of child development and developmentally
appropriate practice. Methods including theoretical approaches, respecting diversity,
understanding vulnerabilities and analysis of behavioural concerns will be covered.
Special Needs - This course is designed to develop an understanding of how to adapt the
curriculum for young children with disabilities and special needs to make a difference in the lives
of children and their families. The emphasis is on the role of educators in planning support for
both children and families through the latest legislation and trends and evidence-based practice.
Practicums I and II - Field practice provides a continuum of experience that gives the student
the opportunity to integrate an apply theory. Students are assigned to a licensed daycare centre,
early learning centre, kindergarten classroom, or other suitable ECA organization. Students must
demonstrate the necessary self-awareness, attitudes and skills that enable them to work
competently with children, families and co-workers. All students complete two practicums to gain
field practice experience with infants or toddlers, preschoolers and school age children.
