Early Childhood Care and Education

Get your diploma in early childhood care and education

The Early Childhood Care and Education program is grounded in a theoretical understanding of early childhood development. You will learn how to design and implement a curriculum that inspires young minds, helps children develop socially, emotionally, and physically, and promotes inclusiveness. You will discover how much work goes into creating child’s play—and experience the joy that comes with it!

You will study the historical roots of child care, education, growth and development, and the connections between these factors. You will develop an understanding of relationships and how play and the learning environment contribute significantly to a child’s development. Through study and practical application, you will experience the thrill of making a difference in the lives of children and their families.

You will complete a work placement at an early childhood center.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the program, graduates will be able to:

1. Engage in collaborative professional relationships with children, families, colleagues and communities demonstrating reliability, accountability, flexibility, and initiative.
2. Meet the legal, occupational, and ethical standards of the early childhood sector.
3. Engage in reflective practice and continuous professional learning and improvement.
4. Use observations to identify if additional supports may benefit the child in early learning environments.
5. Create and maintain meaningful and inclusive learning opportunities, rooted in child development, that support the child including the role and value of play; and the importance of health, safety, nutrition, and well-being.
6. Design equitable, accessible, and developmentally appropriate programming for children and maintain child-focused documentation and assessment.
7. Identify and respond to diverse child and family needs including respect for confidentiality, appropriate boundaries, and implementing guidance practices that promote the dignity of the children.

DEGREE PATHWAYS

This program has degree pathways, giving you the opportunity to receive credit for your Holland College diploma when you continue your education. For a complete list of agreements, visit the Degree Pathways page.