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Diploma Program

Early Childhood Education Post Basic (Special Needs Specialization)

Diploma

18 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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Advanced Special Needs Training For Early Childhood Educators

This comprehensive program combines both your ECE Basic and Special Needs Specialization certificates and prepares you for advanced licensing as a Special Needs Educator (SNE).

  • EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION
  • PROGRAM PLANNING FOR SPECIAL NEEDS CHILDREN
  • FAMILY AND COMMUNITY LIAISON
  • ADVANCED CHILD GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT
  • ADVANCED HEALTH AND NUTRITION
  • CHILD CARE ADMINISTRATION
  • ECE OBSERVATION
  • PLAN IMPLEMENTATION
  • SPECIAL NEEDS PRACTICUM
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Approved & Designated 

This program is approved by the Private Training Institutions Branch (PTIB) of British Columbia. CDI College is designated by the Education Quality Assurance (EQA).

Program Intro Background

Program Courses

Advanced Child Growth & Development

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Students will review typical development from birth to six years of age. This module includes a focus on recognition of children who require additional support with an emphasis placed on current theory and research. Students will apply their knowledge of child growth and development and individual differences using a case study approach.

Interacting with Families, School, & Community

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This module examines the knowledge, strategies, and competencies needed by the early childhood educator to collaborate effectively with families of infants, toddlers, and children who need additional support. The ethics of empowerment of families, professionals, and children is also examined. Students will review the family systems approach, communication skills, and the family-centred care model.

Administration Skills for Child Care Centres

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This module prepares students in the administrative duties of a pre-school or daycare. Topics such as program philosophy and policy design, financial management, organizational structure, staff development, and relationships with families and community will be highlighted.

Advanced Health, Safety, & Nutrition

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This module equips the student with knowledge and skills for planning, implementing, and evaluating health practices for infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and children who need extra support in integrated and infant-toddler settings.

Foundations of Working with Children with Special Needs

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This module is designed for those requiring specialized skills in the care and guidance of working with children who require additional support. Students will explore the selection and use of appropriate assessment materials and intervention techniques for working with children who have special needs. A family-centred approach, which focuses on promoting social interactions among children, will be taken.

The course has an assignment which requires a four-hour observation in a licensed childcare facility where there are children present who require extra support.

Program Planning for Special Needs Children

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The emphasis of this module is on adaptation of special care needs and curriculum development to the various group care environments. Child development principles will provide the basis for program planning and implementation.

Special Needs Practicum (Full-Time)

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A six-week integrated community based practicum, supervised by a Certified Special Needs Educator with additional observation and evaluation by ECE Faculty from the College. This laboratory course provides the student with opportunities for the development and implementation of comprehensive projects that demonstrate advanced professional knowledge and practice.

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Admission

Benefits of this program

Employment Opportunities

  • Standard Admissions:
    • High school graduation or equivalent*

 

  • Mature Admissions:
    • 19 years of age upon starting classes
    • Passing CDI College's English admissions test

 

  • Administrative Requirements
    • Interview with campus director, program coordinator, or designate.
    • Current resume
    • Three character references
    • Completion of a Basic Early Childhood Education program from an accredited college

 

  • Work Experience Placement Requirements:
    • Criminal record check
    • Up-to-date immunization report
  • Program meets the academic requirements necessary to apply to the registry for provincial certification as an ECE in BC
  • Receive certification in emergency child care First Aid & CPR / AED Level B
  • Receive real-world experience through practicum placements
  • Learn from industry-experienced instructors who focus on the most relevant information to your program
  • Receive knowledge and skills to open your own daycare
  • Learn in an inclusive environment
  • Jobs in education are in demand
  • Daycare Supervisor
  • Daycare Worker
  • Early Childhood Supervisor
  • Early Childhood Program Staff
  • Childcare Worker; Daycare
  • Pre-school Supervisor
  • Standard Admissions:
    • High school graduation or equivalent*

 

  • Mature Admissions:
    • 19 years of age upon starting classes
    • Passing CDI College's English admissions test

 

  • Administrative Requirements
    • Interview with campus director, program coordinator, or designate.
    • Current resume
    • Three character references
    • Completion of a Basic Early Childhood Education program from an accredited college

 

  • Work Experience Placement Requirements:
    • Criminal record check
    • Up-to-date immunization report
  • Program meets the academic requirements necessary to apply to the registry for provincial certification as an ECE in BC
  • Receive certification in emergency child care First Aid & CPR / AED Level B
  • Receive real-world experience through practicum placements
  • Learn from industry-experienced instructors who focus on the most relevant information to your program
  • Receive knowledge and skills to open your own daycare
  • Learn in an inclusive environment
  • Jobs in education are in demand
  • Daycare Supervisor
  • Daycare Worker
  • Early Childhood Supervisor
  • Early Childhood Program Staff
  • Childcare Worker; Daycare
  • Pre-school Supervisor
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Hear From Our Graduates

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My instructor is always available and she is totally devoted to her job. I had a warm welcome when I started and I was able to integrate well. The staff is dedicated and thoughtful.

Marylou T.

Early Childhood Education Graduate

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My educational journey at CDI College was smooth and enjoyable. My instructors were exceptional. They were always supportive and friendly, they kept us updated with all the required assignments, ensuring we understood everything on time. The program was well-organized, and any concerns I had were promptly addressed by the instructors.

Saira K.

Early Childhood Education Graduate

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