Certificate Program

Early Learning and Child Care Certificate

Certificate

40 weeks

Qualified Instructors

This program can be offered at the campus(es) below. Please contact the campus of your choosing for program availability and delivery methods.

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Employment Rate

98%

*Jan-Dec 2023, CDI College AB

CDI College

Study On Campus

Alberta

Campuses

Calgary North

Early Learning and Child Care Certificate

Do What You Like and Become an Early Childhood Educator

The Early Learning and Child Care Diploma program will teach you how to work with children who need a little extra support to reach their full potential.

In less than a year, you'll have the job-ready career training to create inclusive classrooms and learning experiences, assist teachers in early childhood education settings, elementary schools, and secondary schools, or help children and youth in your community.

Assisting Student Skills
Observation Skills
PERSONAL CARE AND LIFE SKILLS
Teaching Life Skills
Effective Learning Skills
Planning Skills
Creating Inclusivity
Intrapersonal Skills
Social Skills

Licensed Program

CDI College Alberta programs are licensed under the Private Vocational Training Act in the province of Alberta.

Program Courses

Child Growth and Development

In this in-depth study of all aspects of child development from infancy to late childhood, students will take a detailed look at theories related to human development and how these theories are related to childhood growth and development. During this intensive study of all aspects of child development, students will gain the knowledge needed to identify typical growth patterns in children. There is also an open and supportive forum to discuss potential fears and concerns students may have as they anticipate field placement.

Language Development

This course will explore various strategies as it relates to language development in early childhood. The four major areas of language development will be studied as they relate to listening, speaking, reading and writing. Students will develop an understanding of the six-step consequence of language development and will learn how to apply this learning to the planning, and implementation of listening games and activities, stimulating imagination, curriculum planning, and age-appropriate materials. The critical importance and purpose of literacy and language development at an early age will be discussed.

Health, Safety, Nutrition, and Well-Being

This course focuses on acquiring specific information and practices that will assist the Early Childhood Educator in creating a safe and healthy environment for young children. Students will be presented varying policies and procedures for addressing illness prevention, disease transmission, abuse, safety in child care environments, and healthy nutrition according to the Canada Food Guide.

Theories of Child Development

Theories and views related to child development will be covered in depth. The student will be introduced to key theorists in child development with a focus on both the ages and stages approach and the cultural context approach. Practical applications for using the theories in supporting child development will be covered.

Infants and Toddlers

This course will further expand the student’s knowledge of child growth and development by building on previous learning with an emphasis on the developmental milestones for children between ages of 0-36 months. Current research on neuroscience and how healthy relationships supports brain development will be explored. The importance of prenatal care and family health will also be covered. Students will discuss and explore the role of the early childhood educator in supporting infant and toddlers and their families in creating a healthy and supportive environment. Routines and transitions that support very young children will be covered as students discuss the unique programming considerations for this age group.

Introduction to Program Planning

The focus of this course is on the development and implementation of developmentally appropriate activities. Students will learn how to set learning objectives and design and evaluate activities and lessons.

Philosophies of Play

This course focuses on the development of strategies, based on theories of play, to enhance the value of constructive and positive play in the childcare environment. The module also explores the different developmental play experience stages.

Early Literacy

Diverse lifestyles, multi-cultural experiences, and varied social settings are explored through the construct of imaginative play environments. Assignments include the development of play prop boxes that can be used to encourage creative and dramatic play with children.

Creative Expression in Early Learning

Students will be introduced to the value of music, dance, drama and visual art activities which help develop the child’s ability to express himself or herself in a nonverbal way. Aesthetic growth is accomplished by having the child participate directly in a wide variety of quality experiences through sounds, instruments, and art and body movement. Students will explore ways of enhancing these forms of expression in children.

Guiding Child Behaviour

This course will develop practitioner skills necessary to provide a positive, safe, and nurturing environment. Strategies for guidance, discipline, and conflict will be examined through inclass work and observation assignments. Problem-solving strategies and child-centered approach to classroom management will be explored.

Communication and Stress Management

This course will introduce students to positive communication skills, verbal and non-verbal, in an ever-changing diverse and multicultural environment. Communication, conflict resolution, and issue understanding are key elements explored in this module.

English

The overall objective of this course is to strengthen reading, writing, and speaking skills at the post-secondary level in order to further enhance adult student performance at school and in the work place. Students will write essays, build on their strengths in public speaking, and report on assigned readings.

Addressing Needs of Out of School Care Children

Students will learn the role of out-of-school workers and how they can assist in creating safe and stimulating learning environments.

Introduction to Computers

This course is a broad-based introduction to using a personal computer. It teaches the fundamentals of an operating system and the most popular application software. Students will also learn about the Internet, Web browsers, electronic mail, and antivirus software.

Introductory Field Placement Seminar

Students will be introduced to expectations, policies, and procedures of field placement.

Field Placement I

Students will undergo field work experience in which they plan and deliver childcare. Students will have numerous opportunities to complete prepared activity plans, observe children at play, observe and evaluate typical and challenging behaviours. There will be supervision by a certified Early Childhood Educator. During this competency based practicum, students will also be observed and evaluated by an ELCC Faculty member from the College.

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Admission

Benefits of this program

Employment Opportunities

Standard Admissions:
- Successful completion of English 30-1 or 30-2 or equivalent verified by transcript
OR
- Successful completion of the General Equivalency Development test (GED) with a standard score of 520 in Language Arts: Reading and Writing verified by transcript
OR
- Successful completion of the CDI College Admissions Test

Please note: Course credit for work experience or training completed at other institutions is not permitted for the CDI College Early Learning and Childcare Certificate program.

Mature Admissions
- Be at least 19 years of age prior to admission

Practicum Requirements
- Clear Police Information Check (PIC) with a Vulnerable Sector Search (VSS)

Early Learning and Child Care Certificate course costs
- Tuition $8,462.00
- Books $1,022

2 practicum placements included
Receive knowledge and skills to open your own daycare
Learn in an inclusive environment
Get real-world, hands-on training during field placements
Jobs in education are in demand

Early Learning and Child Care Educator
Educational Assistant
Ratio Enhancement Staff

Admission

Standard Admissions:
- Successful completion of English 30-1 or 30-2 or equivalent verified by transcript
OR
- Successful completion of the General Equivalency Development test (GED) with a standard score of 520 in Language Arts: Reading and Writing verified by transcript
OR
- Successful completion of the CDI College Admissions Test

Please note: Course credit for work experience or training completed at other institutions is not permitted for the CDI College Early Learning and Childcare Certificate program.

Mature Admissions
- Be at least 19 years of age prior to admission

Practicum Requirements
- Clear Police Information Check (PIC) with a Vulnerable Sector Search (VSS)

Early Learning and Child Care Certificate course costs
- Tuition $8,462.00
- Books $1,022

Benefits of this program

2 practicum placements included
Receive knowledge and skills to open your own daycare
Learn in an inclusive environment
Get real-world, hands-on training during field placements
Jobs in education are in demand

Employment Opportunities

Early Learning and Child Care Educator
Educational Assistant
Ratio Enhancement Staff

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Language Proficiency

Applicants who have completed high school or post-secondary education in a country where English was not the primary language must demonstrate English language proficiency for program admission. This standard is based on the Child Care Staff Certification Guide

https://open.alberta.ca/publications/early-childhood-educators-certification-guide

English Language Proficiency (ELP) Requirement
- Transcripts demonstrating successful completion of three years of full-time secondary education at a school where English was the language of instruction; or
- Transcripts demonstrating successful completion of one year of full-time post-secondary education at a school where English was the language of instruction; or
- Minimum score on an approved ELP Test

Test	Details	Minimum Score
International English Language Testing System (IELTS)	Speaking	6
	Writing	6
	Reading	6
	Listening	6
	Total Minimum	6
Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP)	Speaking	7
	Writing	7
	Reading	7
	Listening	7
	Total Minimum	7

Industry Certifications

Gain a distinct advantage by earning industry-recognized certifications that validate your expertise and skills in key areas such as digital marketing, project management, and CRM. Our program prepares you to succeed, whether you're advancing, switching careers, or starting your own business. Invest in yourself and join a community of certified professionals shaping the digital economy.

Industry Leading Employers

Our extensive network and reputation for excellence ensure that graduates are in high demand in today's competitive job market. Prepare to excel in sought-after roles with renowned companies and unlock limitless career opportunities. Elevate your career trajectory and secure your future with our program tailored to meet the demands of industry leaders.

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Hear From Our Graduates

The Early Learning and Child Care program, the instructors, and my classmates have helped me grow emotionally and psychologically. I have learned to know myself and to push myself beyond my limits.

Jessica G.

Education Program Graduate

I am truly impressed with CDI College's Early Learning and Child Care program. My instructors have a positive attitude in the classroom and are very kind and helpful. One of the best things about the education programs is that I am learning something new every day.

Gresa Q.

Education Program Graduate

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