Early Childhood Educator (ECE) / Preschool Teacher Program Courses Orientation and Student Success Skills This course will provide a comprehensive orientation to Stenberg College and the program you have enrolled in. As with all new things, there will be some challenges to overcome; however, with this course, you will become familiar with your new environment and the resources available for your use. You will gain effective learning and study strategies; become familiar with course and research online resources; enhance reading and writing skills; participate in activities to increase self-awareness, communication, and accountability; and develop teamwork skills. Early Childhood Education Foundations This course provides an introduction to the history and philosophy of ECE. Major contemporary trends, social issues and historical influences are examined. Child Growth & Development I Course material spans the period from conception through the preschool years and examines physical, cognitive, language, and social-emotional growth and development. An introductory study of theories, principles of development, and child study techniques is included. Emerging Curriculum This course will introduce you to various educational programs for young children. It will also examine the role of the Early Childhood Educator in establishing an environment that facilitates learning through play. Observation & Recording This course will develop your skill in objectively observing and recording the behaviour of young children. Different kinds of observational techniques will be explored and weekly observations will contribute to a major part of this course. You’ll develop skill in observing, recording and documenting children. Based on these observations you’ll begin to interpret behaviours and develop effective intervention strategies. Health, Safety, Nutrition Issues such as safety, hygiene, recognition and management of childhood illness, meal planning, and emergency procedures within an early childhood environment are covered in detail by this course. Child Growth & Development II Part II reviews the major theories of child development during middle childhood and adolescence in the areas of physical, social, emotional, cultural and intellectual development. An introductory study of theories, principles of development, and child study techniques is included. Guidance & Caring The focus of this course is on the role of the adult in guidance, discipline and behaviour management. It highlights theories, models and skills related to promoting healthy emotional and social development at both the individual and group level. Curriculum Development (Music & Movement, Creative Art, Language & Literature, Science, Socials & Math) With these courses, you’ll acquire knowledge, experience and skill in curriculum planning and teaching strategies. In addition, you’ll learn how to implement and evaluate different learning environments for children. Family-Teacher Relations The family-teacher-community partnership will be examined with the focus being on attitudes, knowledge and skills related to interpersonal communication at the adult level. Emphasis is on the community school model. Practicum Seminar & Practicum 1 & 2 The purpose of this time is to provide you with the opportunity to develop the skills necessary to work with young children. You’ll demonstrate your competency by applying appropriate and suitable affective qualities associated with effective early childhood education, as well as by applying developmentally appropriate child care guidance and curriculum planning. NOTE: During each block practicum period, you will be on site in a licensed childcare facility for full days – 7 hours per day. Career Search Strategies This course is offered in a combined online and classroom delivery format. In the guided online sessions, students learn to network effectively, prepare targeted resumes and cover letters, and follow up in their job search. In the instructor-led session, students are provided with a personalized critique of their resume, cover letter, and online profiles and are also given the opportunity to practice and perfect interview skills. Additional Certification(s) The program also includes essential industry-related training and certification in: Childsafe First Aid You’ll receive a certificate in emergency child care, a course specifically designed to teach how to save the lives of babies and children. FOODSAFE Level One You’ll learn how to prepare food in a way that protects customers from injury or illness. Some of the topics covered are food-borne diseases, personal hygiene and safe procedures for storing. Personal & Professional Development Skills Certificate Responding carefully to the needs of today's employers, a series of Personal and Professional Development Workshops have been integrated throughout the program to develop critical thinking and soft skills. Workshops include Giving and Receiving Feedback, Conflict Resolutions, Active Listening, Providing Quality Service and Building Rapport, Leadership, and Employability Skills. .