Early Childhood Education
Facilitating children's learning through play.
- Graduates are eligible to become registered members of the College of Early Childhood Educators in Ontario
- Pathway for Early Childhood Education graduates to pursue further studies in the Bachelor of Early Learning and Community Development (Honours) program at Algonquin College
- Gain real-world experience with three practice teaching placements
Program Availability and Schedule
Availability
Open
Closed
Waitlisted
Start Term
Availability
Competitive?
Winter 2026
No
Spring 2026
No
Fall 2026
No
Schedule
Program Summary
Credential
Program Code
Area of Interest
Other Delivery Options
Work Integrated Learning
Eligible for Post-Graduation
Work Permit?
The two-year Early Childhood Education Ontario College Diploma program prepares you to become an educator in a variety of early learning and care settings. You gain the knowledge and skills necessary to work with children, families and other professionals.
Benefit from three practicum experiences focusing on working directly with children and their families ranging from birth to age 12. You support children's learning and development through planning and implementing play and inquiry-based curriculum and creating stimulating learning environments. You gain valuable hands-on skills and experience by taking on the roles and responsibilities of an early childhood educator....(read more)
Overview
Facilitating children's learning through play.
The two-year Early Childhood Education Ontario College Diploma program prepares you to become an educator in a variety of early learning and care settings. You gain the knowledge and skills necessary to work with children, families and other professionals.
Benefit from three practicum experiences focusing on working directly with children and their families ranging from birth to age 12. You support children's learning and development through planning and implementing play and inquiry-based curriculum and creating stimulating learning environments. You gain valuable hands-on skills and experience by taking on the roles and responsibilities of an early childhood educator.
Through a combination of theoretical and practical experience, you develop in-demand skills and knowledge in areas of:
- child development
- curriculum design and implementation
- observation and reflective practices
- learning theories
- inclusive practices
- early literacy and language development
- science, technology, engineering and mathematics
- play and creativity
- family and community partnership
- professionalism and ethics
By the end of the program, you will be well-prepared to pursue career opportunities in diverse industry sectors, including but not limited to:
- early learning and care programs
- nursery schools
- kindergarten classes
- community health agencies
- home childcare organizations
- entrepreneurial opportunities
Upon graduation, you are eligible to register with the College of Early Childhood Educators (CECE). Registration with the CECE is required to work as an Early Childhood Educator in Ontario.
Courses
Registration Note:
Applications for this full-time program must be submitted on Ontario Colleges. If you are interested in the part-time delivery of the program, please refer to the part-time program page for course by course registration. The courses take place entirely online and do not require you to come to campus. Without a set class time you can complete your assignments when it’s most convenient for you while following the course deadlines.
Online  |
| Course Number |
Hours | Course Name | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level: 01 | |||
| ENL1813S | 42.0 | Communications 1Communications 1Communication remains an essential skill sought by employers, regardless of discipline or field of study. Using a practical, vocation-oriented approach, students focus on meeting the requirements of effective communication. Through a combination of lectures, exercises, and independent learning, students practise writing, speaking, reading, listening, locating and documenting information and using technology to communicate professionally. Students develop and strengthen communication skills that contribute to success in both educational and workplace environments. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| FAM1000 | 42.0 | Observation SkillsObservation SkillsObservations are used by educators to identify children's skills and interests, determine the effectiveness of early learning programs, and plan responsive curriculum. Students practise recording observations using a variety of tools and strategies to support children's learning. Students observe children in early learning settings to document and interpret their play to gain an understanding of their interests, skills and development. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| FAM1015 | 28.0 | Preparation and Reflection for Practicum 1Preparation and Reflection for Practicum 1The ability to understand and reflect on the roles and responsibilities throughout a practicum experience in early learning and care settings is important for a student educator's success. Students prepare for their practicum by completing eligibility requirements and exploring the specific competencies that must be consistently demonstrated. Students use reflective practices to identify opportunities for personal and professional growth. Through observation and discussion, students examine strategies and techniques used to lead routines and transitions in early learning environments. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| FAM1236 | 42.0 | Introduction to Play-Based CurriculumIntroduction to Play-Based CurriculumEducators support children's well-being, growth and development by facilitating play-based learning opportunities. Students gain an understanding of how play fosters learning through exploration, creativity, and problem-solving. Students explore a variety of factors that influence curriculum design including knowledge of child development, play-based pedagogy and various curriculum approaches. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| FAM1241 | 42.0 | Health and Wellness for ChildrenHealth and Wellness for ChildrenCreating environments where children can safely explore and learn is an essential aspect of the ECE profession. Students examine the social determinants of health and examine legislation regarding health, nutrition and safety requirements in early learning settings. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| FAM1243 | 50.0 | Child DevelopmentChild DevelopmentEducators working with children and families use knowledge of child development to guide their practice. Students examine physical, language, social, emotional and cognitive changes from infancy through school age within social, cultural and ecological contexts. Students begin to make connections between development and play experiences. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| FAM1296 | 42.0 | Foundations of Early Childhood EducationFoundations of Early Childhood EducationEducators are professionals who require a strong foundation in the history and philosophy of early childhood education in Canada and globally. Students begin to examine the impact of policies, legislation and regulations across all levels of government on early childhood education. Students also examine the impact of cultural and family systems on early learning programs and professional relationships. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| Level: 02 | |||
| ENL2032 | 30.0 | Professional Communication for Early Childhood EducatorsProfessional Communication for Early Childhood EducatorsEffective professional communication is critical to educators' success and requires both oral and written skills. Students develop and apply strategies for effective self-reflection, interpersonal communication, and documentation in situations specific to educators. Through group discussions and various scenario-based assignments, students demonstrate their oral and written skills for successfully managing diverse interactions. Pre-requisites: ENL1813S This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| FAM0095 | 30.0 | Music and MovementMusic and MovementMusic and movement are part of children's daily experiences. To support children's learning and development, educators integrate a variety of music and movement opportunities throughout the day. Students actively explore the pedagogical value of music and movement experiences in early learning settings. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| FAM1234 | 160.0 | Practicum 1Practicum 1Practical learning experiences support the integration of theory and professional expectations in a variety of early learning settings. Students practice observational skills and guide children through all routines and transitions. Students also reflect on their emerging knowledge and skills in developing responsive relationships with children and families. Pre-requisites: FAM1000 AND FAM1015 AND FAM1236 AND FAM1243 AND FAM1296 This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| FAM1248 | 40.0 | Supporting Learning Through Co-RegulationSupporting Learning Through Co-RegulationIn early learning settings, the guidance of children's behaviour requires the use of a proactive approach designed to support children's development and well-being. Students explore various factors that have an influence on the interactions and behaviours of children in early learning environments through evidence-informed strategies. Students review strategies and techniques to assist them in modifying the physical, social and emotional environment to support all children's learning and development. Pre-requisites: FAM1000 AND FAM1236 AND FAM1243 This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| FAM1325 | 50.0 | Learning Environments and ExperiencesLearning Environments and ExperiencesEducators must be able to differentiate and implement essential elements that are characteristic of inclusive early learning environments for infants up to school-aged children. Students examine how to co-design early learning environments and spaces that encourage investigation, imagination, creativity problem solving, risk taking and autonomy. Students design intentional learning environments and experiences that meet the needs of specific age groups. Pre-requisites: FAM1000 AND FAM1236 AND FAM1243 AND FAM1296 This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| FAM1326 | 40.0 | Psychology of LearningPsychology of LearningUnderstanding of the various processes of learning helps educators support children's holistic growth and development. Students explore how children acquire knowledge and skills through the examination of various theories and current perspectives. Students develop an understanding of how learning is influenced by developmental, cultural, psychological and social elements. Students use real life experiences to identify how these theories can be used to support learning and development within continuously changing environments. Pre-requisites: FAM1243 This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| Choose one from equivalencies: | |||
| GED0430 | 42.0 | General Education ElectiveGeneral Education ElectiveThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| Level: 03 | |||
| ENL1904F | 40.0 | Children's LiteratureChildren's LiteratureEarly exposure to developmentally appropriate children's literature encourages children to develop language, cognitive, emotional, social and problem-solving skills. In this intensive writing course, students use critical thinking skills to select books and poetry. They assess and use different story sharing techniques. They create story-sharing plans to create learning experiences that develop emergent literacy skills. Pre-requisites: ENL2032 This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| FAM0094 | 30.0 | Creative Art ExperiencesCreative Art ExperiencesThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| FAM1033 | 160.0 | Practicum 2Practicum 2Practical experience working directly with children and families allows students to broaden and deepen their integration of theory with professional practice in early learning settings. Working at a practice level within an early learning environment, students guide children through the day with minimal support from their on-site supervisor and plan, implement and evaluate curriculum that facilitates the learning of all children. Students reflect on their emerging knowledge and skills in developing responsive relationships with children and families. As well, students establish goals and determine strategies to successfully meet all practice level requirements. Pre-requisites: FAM1234 AND FAM1241 AND FAM1248 AND FAM1325 This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| FAM1240 | 12.0 | Preparation and Reflection for Practicum 2Preparation and Reflection for Practicum 2Personal and professional values and beliefs have a significant influence on an early childhood educator's practices. Students start to explore their own values and beliefs and the impact on their work with children and families. Through reflection, students consider their emerging skills in developing curriculum for individual and groups of children. Pre-requisites: FAM1234 This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| FAM1247 | 30.0 | Co-Constructing Responsive CurriculumCo-Constructing Responsive CurriculumEducators are expected to plan, implement and evaluate play-based curriculum. Students develop the skills necessary to implement the curriculum cycle as a framework for facilitating play-based learning. Practical components of the course include the examination of professionalism, family inclusion and pedagogical documentation as essential elements of curriculum development. Pre-requisites: FAM1234 This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| FAM1249 | 40.0 | Exploring Stem in the Early YearsExploring Stem in the Early YearsTo support children's active engagement with math and science, educators must provide learning experiences that facilitate these everyday encounters. Building on children's natural interest, students examine how to support children's math and science skills in early learning environments. Students also explore the importance of connecting children to nature through active exploration. Students actively discover ways to engage children in math and science. Pre-requisites: FAM1325 This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| Choose one from equivalencies: | |||
| GED0430 | 42.0 | General Education ElectiveGeneral Education ElectiveThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| Level: 04 | |||
| FAM1043 | 200.0 | Practicum 3Practicum 3Students consolidate knowledge and skills gained throughout the ECE program. Guided by the College of ECEs Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice, students consistently demonstrate that they are ready to practice as an early childhood educator with a focus on curriculum development, competence, professionalism and communication. Students engage in critical reflection and dialogue to establish relevant goals as well as determine effective strategies to meet all final placement requirements. Pre-requisites: FAM1033 AND FAM1247 This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| FAM1238 | 12.0 | Preparation and Reflection for Practicum 3Preparation and Reflection for Practicum 3Using reflective practice, students examine their knowledge and skills in being ready to practice as an early educator with focus on curriculum development and implementation, competence, professionalism and communication. Pre-requisites: FAM1033 AND FAM1240 This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| FAM1246 | 36.0 | Inclusion in Early LearningInclusion in Early LearningEducators create respectful, equitable and accessible early learning experiences that facilitate the learning and development of all children. Students explore various exceptionalities, universal design principles, assistive technologies and regulatory requirements that foster inclusive learning environments. Students also examine family supports, engagement and advocacy. Pre-requisites: FAM1248 This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| FAM1250 | 36.0 | Language and Emergent LiteracyLanguage and Emergent LiteracyLanguage and early literacy skills are foundational for life-long success; therefore, educators must possess the knowledge and skills to create, prepare and evaluate language-rich environments. Students examine the natural progression of language and literacy development and explore strategies and materials essential for environments that support the multi-dimensional language and literacy skills of children from birth to twelve years of age. Pre-requisites: FAM1033 AND FAM1326 This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| FAM1252 | 36.0 | Pedagogical Practices in Early LearningPedagogical Practices in Early LearningIn this course, students apply various techniques of observation, pedagogical documentation and reflection to support children's learning, holistic development and well-being. Students examine assessment practices outlined in provincial pedagogical documents, and in particular, learn about principles of assessment including types, purposes and function of assessment. Students explore quality assurance mechanisms and discuss their role in developing and maintaining quality in early learning settings. Pre-requisites: FAM1247 This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| FAM1324 | 36.0 | Leadership, Professional Practice, and PartnershipsLeadership, Professional Practice, and PartnershipsThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| Choose one from equivalencies: | |||
| GED0430 | 42.0 | General Education ElectiveGeneral Education ElectiveThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
Careers & Pathways
Careers
Registered Early Childhood Educators may find employment in early learning and care programs, nursery schools, kindergarten classrooms, community health agencies, home childcare organizations in addition to entrepreneurial opportunities.
Pathways
Please note: There may be more pathways available for this program than are listed here. Please use our Pathways search tool to see every option.
Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Create learning contexts to enable, build and maintain caring, responsive relationships in partnerships with children, families and communities that value and respect social, cultural and linguistic diversity including Indigenous peoples' worldviews and Francophone identity.
- Co-create, facilitate and reflect upon inquiry and play-based early years and childcare programs and pedagogical approaches to support children's learning, holistic development and well-being following children's capabilities, interests, ideas and experiences.
- Co-design and maintain inclusive early learning environments to value and support equitable, accessible and meaningful learning opportunities for all children, their families and communities in a range of early years and childcare settings.
- Collaborate with children, families, colleagues, agencies and community partners to create, maintain, evaluate and promote safe and healthy early learning environments to support independence, reasonable risk-taking and healthy development and well-being.
- Use observation strategies to identify children's strengths and challenges and to ascertain when children and families might benefit from additional support or community resources.
- Use professional communication in interactions with children, families, colleagues, employers, the regulatory body, government authorities and children's service agencies to meet legal and ethical standards of the early years sector.
- Act in accordance with relevant legislation, regulations, College of Early Childhood Educators Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice, agency policies and procedures and principles of evidence-informed practice and reflect upon their impact on one's own role in early years and childcare settings.
- Identify, report and document when a child is in a situation of perceived risk for, or actual neglect or abuse, in accordance with legislation, the College of Early Childhood Educators Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice, policies and procedures.
- Create and engage in partnerships with families, communities, colleagues, inter-disciplinary professionals, authorities and child service agencies to advocate for quality early years and childcare programs and services.
- Engage in reflective practice and continuous professional learning in accordance with principles of lifelong learning, evidence-informed practices in the early years sector and requirements of the College of Early Childhood Educators.
- Identify and apply discipline-specific practices that contribute to the local and global community through social responsibility, economic commitment and environmental stewardship.
Tuition & Fees
2025/2026 Academic Year
Tuition and related ancillary fees for this program can be viewed by using the Tuition and Fees Estimator tool at www.algonquincollege.com/fee-estimator
Further information on fees can be found by visiting the Registrar's Office website at www.algonquincollege.com/ro.
Fees are subject to change.
Additional program related expenses include:
Books and supplies cost approximately $2000 for the program. These costs include a reasonable estimate for course project supplies.
Admissions Requirements
All applicants must satisfy both College Eligibility and Program Eligibility requirements.
College Eligibility
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent;
- Mature Student status (19 years of age or older and without a high school diploma at the start of the program). Eligibility may be determined by academic achievement testing, for which a fee will be charged.
Program Eligibility
- English, Grade 12 (ENG4C or equivalent) with a grade of 65% or higher.
- Applicants with international transcripts must provide proof of the subject specific requirements noted above and may be required to provide proof of language proficiency. Domestic applicants with international transcripts must be evaluated through the International Credential Assessment Service of Canada (ICAS) or World Education Services (WES).
- IELTS-International English Language Testing Service (Academic) Overall band of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each band; OR TOEFL-Internet-based (iBT)-overall 88, with a minimum of 22 in each component: Reading 22; Listening 22; Speaking 22; Writing 22; OR Duolingo English Test (DET) Overall 120, minimum of 120 in Literacy and no score below 105.
Should the number of qualified applicants exceed the number of available places, applicants will be selected on the basis of their proficiency in English.
Application Information
EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION
Program Code 0430X09FAO
Applications to full-time day programs must be submitted with official transcripts showing completion of the academic admission requirements through:
ontariocolleges.ca
60 Corporate Court
Guelph, Ontario N1G 5J3
1-888-892-2228
Students currently enrolled in an Ontario secondary school should notify their Guidance Office prior to their online application at www.ontariocolleges.ca
Applications for Fall Term and Winter Term admission received by February 1 will be given equal consideration. Applications received after February 1 will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis as long as places are available.
International applicants please visit this link for application process information: https://algonquincollege.my.site.com/myac360/s/self-registration-page.
For further information on the admissions process, contact:
Registrar's Office
Algonquin College
1385 Woodroffe Ave
Ottawa, ON K2G 1V8
Telephone: 613-727-0002
Toll-free: 1-800-565-4723
TTY: 613-727-7766
Fax: 613-727-7632
Contact: https://www.algonquincollege.com/ro
Additional Information
Program Resources
The Early Childhood Education program offers multiple delivery options through the Ottawa, Pembroke and AC Online campuses.
Online Full-time: This program is delivered online in a standard format over four consecutive semesters.
Students entering the program in the fall semester will attend online classes from September to December (Level 01), January to April (Level 02), May to August (Level 03) and September to December (Level 04).
Students entering the program in the Winter semester will attend online classes from January to April (Level 01), May to August (Level 02), September to December (Level 03) and January to April (Level 04).
Students entering the program in the Spring semester will attend online classes from May to August (Level 01), September to December (Level 02), January to April (Level 03) and May to August (Level 04).
Practicum:
Students in the Early Childhood Education program complete three practicums in a variety of settings with different age groups during their course of study. The first two practicums are four weeks in length whereas the final is five weeks.
Practicum Eligibility:
All students must be cleared through Placement Pass to be eligible for each practicum. Failure to complete these requirements will prevent students from participating in the practicum component of the program.
Upon acceptance into the program, the following requirements and associated costs must be met.
- Health Requirements: Applicants must provide evidence of full and complete immunizations. Placement Pass will review the student's record of immunization and provide authorization for entry into practicum. More information in this regard is available on the Placement Pass website.
- Standard First Aid and CPR Certification: Valid standard First Aid and CPR Certification (St. John Ambulance, Red Cross or equivalent) must be completed prior to the commencement of classes. This certificate must be valid for the duration of the program.
- Vulnerable Sector Police Check:Early Learning programs require you to have a clear Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC). If you register in the program without a clear VSC and as a result are unable to participate in practicum, you will not be able to graduate. You will be required to disclose the contents of the VSC, including all notations, to the practicum agencies.
It is your responsibility to obtain the VSC prior to the deadline identified by ECE program and to pay any associated costs. It may take 8 to 12 weeks to obtain this documentation; please submit your application as early as possible. Should you require a letter please reach out to the Placement Officer or Coordinator of the program.
Practicum Information:
Students may be required to travel up to 90 minutes to reach their practicum. While every attempt is made to provide students with a practicum close to a preferred area, this is not always possible. Students are ultimately responsible for their own travel arrangements during all practicums.
Please note that due to limited practice teaching field placements in the Ottawa area (including surrounding areas), part-time students are not guaranteed to undertake placements in their preferred term. We are committed to accommodating students where possible. Students residing outside the Ottawa area must contact the Placement Officer to discuss practicum opportunities.
These practicums are assigned by the Placement Officer with an emphasis on having students experience different settings. Students are not permitted to contact early learning programs to arrange practicums. Practicums are completed during regular, full-time working hours, approximately 8 to 9 hours per day (Monday to Friday). Students will follow the same daily/weekly schedule as their on-site supervisor for each practicum. Students are not permitted to choose their own practicum schedule. Hours vary from program to program. Students may be starting as early as 6:45 a.m. and ending as late as 6:15 p.m.
It is important to recognize that students completing practicums must be able to lift children, materials and equipment (up to 32 kgs) and run/move quickly between areas in the room and outside to ensure children's safety. In addition, students are required to consistently observe children to ensure appropriate levels of supervision and assess children's abilities, skills and interests to develop meaningful curriculum. These requirements are applicable to all practicums, which must be successfully completed to graduate.
Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR):
Students who wish to apply for PLAR need to demonstrate competency at a post-secondary level in all the course learning requirements. Evidence of learning achievements for PLAR candidates may include a comprehensive challenge examination and/or completion of a portfolio.
More information can be found at www.algonquincollege.com/plar.
Please note, with respect to practicums, students can only obtain PLAR credits toward Practicum 1.
AC Pathways:
Algonquin College has several articulation agreements with other colleges and universities whereby ECE graduates receive credit towards these diplomas or degrees. More information can be found at www.algonquincollege.com/pathways
Academic Probation:
Students who have two or more F grades in a given term or whose term grade point average falls below 1.7 are considered to be on academic probation (Policy AA14 Grading System). This requires the student to meet with their academic advisor or program coordinator to sign a learning contract which identifies the conditions which must be met to continue in the program. Students who do not meet the terms of their learning contract are withdrawn from the program.
Program Progression:
As per policy AA39: Program Progression and Graduation Requirements, when students are admitted to a program, they are assigned to the Program of Study that aligns with their start date. If a student takes a break for two or more consecutive terms the Program of Study is reset to align with the current version (when studies are resumed).
Contact
Future Students
For additional information, please contact our Customer Service Representative team at online@algonquincollege.com and they will direct you to the best person to answer your specific questions.
Current Students
For additional information, please reference the AC Online Circle of Care.