As an early childhood educator, graduates will support children as they learn through play. A student's role will be to create developmentally appropriate curriculum and design inviting and effective quality learning environments. Students will learn how to develop holistic programs that include early literacy and language, creative arts, numeracy, and open-ended play experiences both indoors and outdoors. Their responsibilities will include working alongside colleagues to build relationships with children and families, community partners and other professionals.

Saskatchewan Polytechnic's two-year Early Childhood Education (ECE) diploma program is offered on-campus in Prince Albert, Regina and Saskatoon, or through regional colleges or distance learning, wherever students live. It is a highly respected program that integrates the most current research on early childhood education. Topics of study will include:

• observation, assessment and documentation • learning through play • children with diverse abilities • child guidance techniques • family and community relationships • play environments and program planning • programming for infants, toddlers, pre-school and school-age children • administration and child care regulations • communication and employability skills

Throughout the two years, students will have opportunities to work with children through four 4-week practicums in a variety of early learning and child care programs.

Through practical experience, students will get the feedback they need to develop best practices, recognize stages of development, plan curriculum based on children's interests and needs and understand the impact of the environment on behaviour. Students will participate in course work at the campus early learning and child care centre.