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NACC Early Childhood Assistant 2021 (ECA) — Elite College
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NACC Early Childhood Assistant 2021 (ECA)

◉ Diploma Program

Prepare for a rewarding career helping children learn, grow and thrive. The NACC Early Childhood Assistant 2021 (ECA) program combines early childhood education theory with supervised practicum training in real childcare environments — with practical skills in child development, play-based learning, communication, health and safety, nutrition, observation, language and literacy, behaviour guidance, inclusive education, special needs, and working with families and communities.

✦ 39 Weeks ◈ 1,000 Hours ✓ In Person / Hybrid ◉ Career Colleges Act, 2005
NACC Early Childhood Assistant 2021 (ECA)
NACC Early Childhood Assistant 2021 (ECA) — Elite College
Healthcare

NACC Early Childhood Assistant 2021 (ECA)

39 weeks 1,000 total hours Diploma Markham, Richmond Hill Next start: Fall 2026 In Person / Hybrid delivery
NACC Early Childhood Assistant 2021 (ECA) Apply Now

Prepare for a rewarding career helping children learn, grow and thrive. The NACC Early Childhood Assistant 2021 (ECA) program combines early childhood education theory with supervised practicum training in real childcare environments.

This program is designed to develop practical skills in child development, play-based learning, communication, health and safety, nutrition, observation, language and literacy, behaviour guidance, inclusive education, special needs and working with families and communities.

This program is approved as a vocational program under the Ontario Career Colleges Act, 2005.

Skills You'll Master

01

Child Development

Understand physical, cognitive, social and emotional growth milestones.

02

Play-Based Learning

Facilitate learning through play and hands-on activities.

03

Communication

Build positive relationships with children, families and colleagues.

04

Health & Safety

Maintain safe, hygienic and nurturing environments for children.

05

Nutrition

Promote healthy eating habits and nutritional awareness.

06

Observation Skills

Learn to observe and document children's development.

07

Language & Literacy

Support language development and early literacy skills.

08

Behaviour Guidance

Use positive guidance strategies to support children's behaviour.

09

Inclusive Education

Create inclusive environments that support all children.

Foundations of Early Childhood Education
90 Hours — Introduction to the field of early childhood education, historical perspectives and career paths.
Communications
45 Hours — Develop effective communication skills for childcare settings.
Infant and Child Development
90 Hours — Study physical, cognitive, social and emotional development from infancy through school age.
Observation Skills
45 Hours — Learn to observe, document and assess children's development.
Health, Safety and Nutrition
45 Hours — Maintain safe, healthy environments and promote proper nutrition for children.
Child, Family and Community
45 Hours — Build partnerships with families and connect with community resources.
Practicum I
125 Hours — Supervised hands-on experience in a real childcare environment.
Introduction to Sociology
45 Hours — Understand social structures and their impact on children and families.
Play-Based Early Learning Strategies
45 Hours — Explore the role of play in early learning and facilitate play-based experiences.
Language and Literacy
45 Hours — Support language development and early literacy skills in children.
Introduction to Psychology
45 Hours — Introduction to psychological principles relevant to child development.
Guiding Children's Behavior
45 Hours — Learn positive guidance techniques to support children's social-emotional development.
Creating Inclusive Environments
45 Hours — Create inclusive environments that celebrate diversity and support all children.
Special Needs
45 Hours — Learn strategies to support children with diverse developmental needs and abilities.
Practicum II
200 Hours — Extended supervised practicum experience in a childcare setting.

Graduates develop skills applicable to opportunities in:

Licensed Childcare Centres Daycare Programs Preschools Early Learning Centres Other Childcare Environments
  • Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent
  • English proficiency (minimum Grade 12 or equivalent)
  • Admissions interview with program coordinator
  • Vulnerable Sector Check (required for practicum placement)
  • Up-to-date immunization records (recommended)

Total Tuition

$7,500

Includes all materials, textbooks, and practicum placement support.

Financial Aid Available

OSAP, Better Jobs Ontario, and flexible payment plans available.

Learn More
What career opportunities are available after graduation?
Graduates find opportunities in licensed childcare centres, daycare programs, preschools, early learning centres and other childcare environments.
Is this program accredited?
Yes, the NACC Early Childhood Assistant 2021 (ECA) program is approved as a vocational program under the Ontario Career Colleges Act, 2005.
How much practicum experience is included?
The program combines 675 hours of theory with 325 hours of practicum (Practicum I — 125 hours, Practicum II — 200 hours), helping students build both knowledge and real-world childcare experience.
What delivery formats are available?
The program is offered in In Person and Hybrid formats to suit different learning preferences and schedules.

Learn in the Classroom. Grow Through Experience.

The program combines 675 hours of theory with 325 hours of practicum, helping students build both knowledge and real-world childcare experience.

Apply Now