In this program, students will develop the skills, knowledge and practical experience they need to become a frontline leader in early childhood education (ECE). They will learn how to coordinate and manage the day-to-day operations in various settings. As an ECE professional, students will be ensuring safe, respectful and inclusive play environments, nurturing young children, supporting their families and engaging with community partners to sustain learning and growth.

Students will develop a holistic understanding of early childhood education and care for children from newborn to age 12. They will learn through a blend of classroom instruction, project-based courses and hands-on experiences working with children, families and ECE professionals in community settings. Students will also develop a deep understanding of supporting child development as well as develop effective strategies and best practices. They will learn about emergent curriculum when planning and designing responsive relationship-based programs and learning environments.

Students will become familiar with Flight (Alberta’s Early Learning and Care Framework), while gaining fundamental communication, digital literacy, observation and assessment techniques as well as documentation, reporting and administration duties. They will develop skills in behavior management, problem-solving, collaboration and team-building skills and strategies essential to supporting the holistic development and well-being of children, staff, and volunteers in their care. Graduates will come away with a broader perspective of what wellness, development, equity, diversity, inclusion, reconciliation, child-centred learning, ethics, professionalism, and advocacy means as they facilitate learning and building relationships within an early childhood education environment.