The Early Childhood Education and Development Diploma program prepares students to work in child care settings with young children and families as a frontline caregiver or as a supervisor. They can make a difference in the lives of children, families, and communities. The 2-year (full-time) Early Childhood Education and Development (ECED) Diploma program (formerly referred to as the Early Learning and Child Care Diploma) prepares students to provide quality child care in a wide variety of settings and plan emergent play experiences for the children in your care. Students will gain knowledge in child development, family dynamics, play, and program planning that will equip them to support the healthy development of children through child-centered learning experiences.

This program combines theory and practice and graduates are eligible for Child Development Supervisor certification from Alberta Human Services. The Early Childhood Education and Development learning lab combines classroom space with interactive children’s learning centres that include an artist studio, a reading centre, a dramatic play centre, and a sensory motor centre. This innovative and engaging environment supports the transition of theory to practice as students have an opportunity to engage with children in the lab space.

Learners have the opportunity to participate in the practicum project. They will take their practicum in the lab classroom, be mentored by Bow Valley College ECED instructors, and will work alongside educators, children, and parents from the YWCA at Bow Valley College Child Care Centre. This practicum focuses on emergent, child-centred, and play-based curriculum. Students will focus on building strong and healthy relationships with the children and with all parties involved in the practicum experience. Students will be involved in observing, documenting, and planning the curriculum to meet children’s individual needs, interests, and development. By focusing on the belief that children, by nature, are unique and competent, we join children in their learning by encouraging exploration and creative expressions in richly designed environments that you create.