Early Learning and Child Care General

Early Learning and Child Care will prepare graduates for a career working with children from birth to age twelve, and their families. Research studies indicate that the first five years in the lives of children are the most critical in terms of their overall development. A commitment to this worthwhile profession will have long term benefits to young children, their families and the community in which they live and work. Graduates of the program have excellent opportunities for employment in a variety of different early childhood settings including child care centers, family day homes, nursery schools, inclusive child care programs, kindergartens, and out-of-school programs. Students may complete Early Learning and Child Care programs in a number of ways: 1) Full or part-time study at regularly scheduled times on campus and in local practicum settings such as a child care centre, kindergarten classroom, or preschool. 2) By distance education. All courses required to complete the Early Learning and Child Care curriculum are available by or online delivery. Early Learning and Child Care Certificate graduates qualify for certification as a Child Development Worker through Alberta Children and Youth Services (www.child.alberta.ca).