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Early Childcare Assistant — Elite College
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Early Childcare Assistant

◉ Certificate Program

Build a rewarding career supporting children's learning, development and well-being. This program combines classroom learning with extensive hands-on practicum experience in early childhood settings — with practical knowledge in child development, play-based activities, health and safety, and supporting children's developmental needs.

✦ 39 Weeks ◈ 945 Hours ✓ In Person ◉ Career Colleges Act, 2005
Early Childcare Assistant
Early Childcare Assistant — Elite College
Early Childhood Education

Early Childcare Assistant

39 weeks 945 total hours Certificate Markham, Richmond Hill Next start: Fall 2026 In Person delivery
Early Childcare Assistant Apply Now

Build a rewarding career supporting children's learning, development and well-being. The Early Childcare Assistant program combines classroom learning with extensive hands-on practicum experience in early childhood settings.

This program is designed to develop practical knowledge in child development, early learning, play-based activities, health and safety, communication, childcare policies, activity planning and supporting children's developmental needs.

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

Health & Safety

Maintain safe, hygienic and nurturing environments for children.

04

Communication

Build positive relationships with children, families and colleagues.

05

Activity Planning

Design engaging, age-appropriate activities and learning experiences.

06

Inclusive Practices

Support diversity and inclusion in early learning settings.

07

Guiding Behaviour

Use positive guidance strategies to support children's behaviour.

08

Family & Community

Build meaningful relationships with families and community partners.

09

Policies & Procedures

Understand childcare regulations, standards and best practices.

Early Childhood Education Foundations
Introduction to the field of early childhood education, historical perspectives, current trends and career paths.
Child Growth and Development
Study physical, cognitive, social and emotional development from infancy through school age.
Communication Skills
Develop effective verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills for childcare settings.
Health, Safety and Nutrition
Learn to maintain safe, healthy environments and promote proper nutrition for children.
Planning Activities for Children
Design and implement age-appropriate activities that support learning and development.
Play and Early Learning
Explore the role of play in early learning and how to facilitate play-based experiences.
Supporting Children's Development
Learn strategies to support children with diverse developmental needs and abilities.
Childcare Policies and Procedures
Understand licensing regulations, policies and professional standards in childcare.
Infant and Toddler Practicum
Gain hands-on experience caring for and supporting infants and toddlers in early years settings.
Family and Community Relationships
Build partnerships with families and connect with community resources and services.
Inclusive Childcare Practices
Create inclusive environments that celebrate diversity and support all children.
Guiding Children's Behaviour
Learn positive guidance techniques to support children's social-emotional development.
Preschool Learning and Development
Focus on preschool-aged children's learning, development and school readiness.
Preschool Practicum
Apply skills in a preschool setting with supervised hands-on experience.

Graduates develop skills applicable to opportunities in:

Licensed Childcare Centres Daycare Centres Early Learning Centres Preschool Programs Children's Services 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

$7,200

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 centres, early learning centres, preschool programs and other children's services environments.
Is this program accredited?
Yes, the Early Childcare Assistant program is approved as a vocational program under the Ontario Career Colleges Act, 2005.
What is the class size?
Class sizes are capped at 1 instructor per 15 students for personalized attention and hands-on training.
How much practicum experience is included?
The program includes two supervised practicum placements — one in infant/toddler settings and one in preschool settings — providing extensive hands-on experience.

Make a Difference in a Child's Early Years

Build the practical skills and experience to help create safe, supportive and engaging learning environments for young children.

Apply Now