Early Childhood Assistant

About the Program

The Early Childhood Assistant Diploma offered by the Ontario Institute of Health and Innovation is a 30-36 week immersive program aimed at equipping students with the skills needed to foster the social, emotional, and physical growth of children. The course combines online theoretical learning with hands-on practicum experiences in childcare facilities, ensuring a comprehensive educational journey. Students take advantage of fully equipped early childhood labs and learn under the guidance of seasoned childcare professionals.

Why Choose This Business Program?

Are you ready to make a meaningful contribution to children's development while entering a rapidly expanding field? This program offers an all-encompassing learning experience in facilities that replicate real daycare centers, preschools, and specialized care environments. Gain practical experience in childcare labs that replicate authentic child learning zones, and become adept at using tools that enhance child development within safe, nurturing settings.

Core Curriculum Includes:

• Extensive Theoretical Studies: 354 hours of comprehensive online instruction on child development, health and safety, and teaching strategies.
• Practical Experience: 126 hours spent in state-of-the-art childcare labs.
• Interactive Training: Focus areas include observation, behavior management, creativity enhancement, and play-based learning approaches.
• 240-hour Practicum: Gain real-world experience with trusted partners.

The program provides in-depth knowledge in areas such as prenatal to age 12 child development, special education, Indigenous perspectives, and the educational impact of play, all in a condensed time frame.

Career Opportunities

Career Paths for Graduates

Graduates are positioned for various roles within Canada's burgeoning early childhood education sector. The program prepares students for positions including Preschool Classroom Assistant, Childcare Center Educator, Early Intervention Assistant, After-School Program Coordinator, Special Education Assistant, and Child Development Advisor.

Employment Outlook and Incentives:

• An estimated 108,800 new job openings by 2031 across Canada.
• Ontario committed $366 million to fostering new childcare service providers.
• Projected establishment of 86,000 new childcare spaces in Ontario by 2026.
• High demand for skilled professionals in the Canadian childcare landscape.

Career Benefits

Embark on a career path with significant prospects to impact children's lives positively. This foundation also sets the stage for further studies in fields like child psychology and early childhood education. The program can be completed in just 30 weeks, a substantial reduction compared to traditional programs lasting up to 50 weeks.

Program Details

What Students Receive:

• Thorough training in child growth, health and safety, and inclusion.
• Training in innovative labs that mimic real-world childcare environments.
• Expertise shared by childcare veterans with real-life experience.
• Career Services assistance with job hunting, resume building, interviewing techniques, and job placement.

Program Highlights:

• A swift 30-36 week program blending online studies with in-person session
• Frequent start dates with adaptable class schedules, including daytime and evening options.
• 240 hours of practicum experience in operational childcare facilities.
• Financial aid available for eligible participants.

This program empowers students with the expertise necessary to succeed as childcare professionals who maintain organized learning spaces, ensure attentive care, and serve as a foundation for pursuing careers as Early Childhood Educators within Ontario's expanding childcare sector.