
- Lessons: 31
- Duration: 40 hours
Early Childhood Assistant (ECA) – Short Course provides a comprehensive understanding of child development from infancy to middle childhood, emphasizing play-based learning and responsive caregiving.
Students will learn to create inclusive, safe, and supportive environments while building strong partnerships with families and communities. The course also develops a theoretical concepts as a professional skills in communication, observation and ethics.
Program Objectives
After completing this program, students will be able to:
- Understand Early Learning Systems: Gain a clear understanding of early learning and child care frameworks in Canada, including health standards and child safety guidelines.
- Follow Ethics and Guidelines: Learn ethical responsibilities, privacy practices, and safety protocols related to child guidance and inclusive learning environments.
- Support Classroom Activities: Assist in planning, organizing, and delivering engaging play-based activities and daily routines under the direction of early childhood educators.
- Communicate Effectively: Use age-appropriate communication skills and developmental terminology when interacting with children, families, and education teams.
- Maintain Professionalism: Demonstrate professionalism through active supervision, respectful interaction, accurate documentation, and compliance with child care standards.
- Understand Child Development: Learn the basics of physical, cognitive, and social-emotional growth stages in young children to support quality care environments.
- Enhance Professional Development: Build strong skills in observation, activity preparation, and classroom engagement for ongoing career upskilling.
- Apply Knowledge in Various Settings: Be prepared to apply foundational skills across diverse early learning environments, community programs, and child care centers.
Support:
For any inquiries related to the ECA course, please contact:
eca@epiccollege.ca
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Foundations of Early Childhood Education
Introduces the core concepts of child development, learning, and the role of early childhood educators.
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Infant and Toddler Development
Focuses on development from prenatal stage to age three, including milestones, attachment, and caregiving.
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Preschool and Middle Childhood Development
Explores development from ages 3 to 12 across physical, cognitive, and social domains.
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Family and Community
Highlights the importance of family partnerships and community support in child development.
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Behaviour Guidance
Introduces positive behaviour support strategies that promote self-regulation and social skills
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Health, Safety, and Nutrition
Covers safety, healthy habits, nutrition, and illness prevention in early learning settings.
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Inclusion and Diverse Needs in Early Learning Environment
Promotes inclusive practices that support children of all needs and backgrounds.
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Professional Ethics and Responsibilities
Explores ethical standards, professional roles, and responsibilities of ECEAs in Ontario.
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Communication Strategies, Observation, and Activity Planning
Builds skills in communication, observation, and planning responsive learning activities.
