Program Information

This program provides Registered Early Childhood Educators with specialist knowledge and skills to work as resource consultants with children living with special needs and with their families. Graduates work in a variety of early learning settings including licensed childcare centres and home-based child care agencies; family support programs; infant and child development and specialized early learning programs. Graduates support inclusive early learning environments and lead others in the analysis, creation and implementation of family-centered policies and practices that support a philosophy of inclusion. Graduates collaborate with early childhood professionals, community partners and families to identify, respond to and support the diverse abilities and interests of all children. Graduates develop, review and update family-centered individualized Family Service Plans (FSP) that support access to early learning programs and services, meaningful participation in these programs, optimal development and learning, and successful transitions in daily life and to new learning environments. Graduates provide leadership through consultation, service co-ordination, case management and referral services for children living with special needs and for their families. Applying principles of adult training/education theory and practice, graduates develop and deliver strength-based training and professional development activities to families, agency/childcare centre staff and community service providers. As members of the College of Early Childhood Educators, graduates act in accordance with the Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice (College of Early Childhood Educators, 2011).