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• Articulated Program: UPEI Bachelor of Child and Family Studies

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Early Childhood Care and Education

A comprehensive, nationally recognized program with stringent quality standards, Early Childhood Care and Education features program content based on National Guidelines for Early Childhood Education programs.

It is widely recognized that the training of Early Childhood Educators is one of the most significant indicators of the provision of quality child care. Learners in this program will not only have the opportunity to study the historical roots of child care and education and child growth and development, but will explore the connections between these factors. Learners will also develop an understanding of relationships and how play and the learning environment contribute significantly to a child’s development. Through study and practical application, learners will experience the thrill of having the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of children and their families.

If you have a personal or professional interest in courses relating to early childhood, please contact the Early Childhood Care Education Program to inquire about short term continuing education opportunities offered during the regular daytime program. 1-902-566-9524 or hmoses@hollandc.pe.ca.

Required Courses

Year 1

Philosophy of Early Childhood Care and Education
Students will study the foundations of early childhood care and education. They will explore the historical perspective and the theorists and philosophers who have contributed to our understanding of growth and development of young children.

Interpersonal Communications
Students study verbal and non-verbal communications. They will study the work of Dr. William Glasser and Choice Theory as they attempt to understand themselves and others. A big part of this study will be to explore motivation, responsibility and accountability.

Developmentally Appropriate Practice
This course builds on the philosophy course as it further considers the methodologies of teaching and learning and how they relate to developmentally appropriate practice. Students identify the principles of developmentally appropriate practice through an exploration of the "people" the "place" and the "practice".

Child Growth and Development 1: Conception to 2 Years
Key areas of study include biological and environmental factors influencing growth and development. It includes current research on brain development as well as milestones in all developmental areas. Emphasis is placed on the importance of nurturing and touch in this stage of development as students explore how caring for an infant's physical needs impacts on his/her development. In addition, students begin the process of observing and recording behaviour and development.

Growth and Development 2: 2 to 6 Years
Students will continue to explore environmental factors and their effects on development. Key areas of study include milestones in all developmental areas and the relevant theorists who have contributed to our understanding of children's development. Some of the focus is on language; motor development; children's sexuality and nutrition. Students continue their practice of observing, recording and analyzing behaviour and development.

Principles of Inclusion
Through this course students will explore the social attitudes, historical practices, and emergence of inclusion. They will continue to develop their personal philosophy of early childhood care and education and be introduced to diversity and trends in inclusive education.

Play and the Learning Environment
Since play is the foundation for children's learning, this course will address play in all its forms. Students will investigate their role as a facilitator of play. They will have an opportunity to explore the connection between play and the learning environment. Students will experience the challenge of creating an environment that encourages optimal learning for children.

Child Guidance 1: The People, The Place and The Practice
The concepts of guidance and discipline are presented within the framework of child growth and development, developmentally appropriate practice and constructivist education. Direct and indirect guidance strategies are explored, so that learners can support children's development towards self-discipline.

Program Planning
Students learn to plan and implement programs for young children. They are expected to formulate outcomes based on observations and children's interests. Students will learn multi-level instruction strategies that will foster each child's potential. The challenge of meeting the individual needs of children within a group setting is also examined. As part of the course students will develop teaching aides to accompany their program planning.

Year 2

Intrapersonal Communications
Students will examine the process of self awareness and personal wellness. Individual beliefs and values are examined. The aim is to develop the practice of self-reflection, and recognition of personal limitations and strengths.

Growth and Development 3: 6 to 12 years
Students will continue to study the developmental milestones and theories contributing to the understanding of children of this age. Key areas of study include literacy, cognitive advances and social/ emotional development, and transition into formal schooling.

Understanding the Role of Curriculum
Students examine the relationships between theories and methods of learning. A variety of curriculum areas are explored and discussed. The students will also develop an understanding of integrated and emergent curriculum, with a concentrated focus on The Project Approach.

Administration in Early Childhood Care & Education
Students become familiar with existing provincial legislation, regulations and guidelines under the Child Care Facilities Act and examine the occupational standards for child care administrators. A key area of study includes budgeting for various aspects of an early learning program.

Meeting the Special Needs of Children
This course looks at children with special needs. It focuses predominantly on the more widespread disabilities experienced by today's children. Students discover how to support children and their families within a community setting.

Family Studies
Students will explore the role of the family in the lives of children, examine the outcomes of socialization and develop a broader sensitivity to unique family needs. In addition, they will learn how to effectively communicate with other professionals and agencies concerned with children and families.

Child Guidance 2: Strategies for Guiding Children's Behaviour
Emphasis is placed on intervention and assisting children in gaining the social and emotional skills necessary to control their behaviour and make more appropriate, socially acceptable choices.

Ethics and Professional Practice
Students examine ethical behaviour and professional practice in the field of Early Childhood Care and Education. Students will also develop an awareness of the provincial and national codes of ethics as well as the national occupational standards.

Graduate Opportunities

• Early childhood centres
• Nursery schools
• Play groups
• Recreation programs
• Family resource centres

A diploma from Holland College is recognized in the early childhood care & education field across the country.

Admission Requirements

• Grade 12 or equivalent with credits at or above the general level
• Grade 12 academic English (minimum of 65% or equivalency based on English assessment arranged by Admissions)
• Applicants must have academic or general grade 11 or 12 math and science at a minimum 60%
• Preference will be given to those applicants with academic credits
• Child growth and development, computer, and home economics courses would be an asset
• Applicants must provide current Police Records Check
• Applicants must complete 40 hours of volunteer or paid work at a licensed child care centre prior to program start date
• Completion of two reference forms, one personal and one from an employer/teacher
• Current CPR - Basic rescuer Level C and a Standard First Aid certificate from a recognized First Aid/CPR Trainer prior to June 30th. The Occupational Health and Safety Division of P.E.I. will provide a list of current recognized First Aid/CPR Trainers.
• Resume including work and volunteer experience with applicable dates, membership in groups, associations or athletics, awards and distinctions, and any other information about yourself relevant to the program to which you are applying.

If you have any questions concerning the Early Childhood Care and Education program, contact one of the following:

• sashley@hollandc.pe.ca
• hmoses@hollandc.pe.ca
• kgillis@hollandc.pe.ca