Helping Canadians get back to work.

Early Childhood Assistant

About the Program

The Early Childhood Assistant Diploma at Ontario Institute of Health and Innovation is a 30-36 week program designed to prepare students to support children's social, emotional, and physical development through hybrid curriculum ending with valuable practicum at childcare facilities. Students study theory online while gaining practical experience in fully equipped early childhood labs learning from childcare professionals with years of experience.

Why Choose This Business Program?

Ready to positively impact children's futures while entering a field with exceptional career growth? This program provides immersive learning in facilities that emulate daycares, preschools, and specialized care facilities. Students practice in childcare labs designed to simulate real-world child learning spaces, interact with tools used to support child growth, and understand how to maintain safe and nurturing environments for children.

Core Curriculum Includes:

Comprehensive theory: 354 hours of online study covering child development, health, safety, and pedagogy
Practical lab work: 126 hours in early childhood lab emulating licensed childcare centers
Hands-on training: observation, behaviour guidance, creativity fostering, and play-based learning strategies
240-hour practicum in childcare facilities with trusted OIHI partners

Students gain expertise in child development from prenatal through age 12, special education, Indigenous engagement, diversity and inclusion, and educational power of play while completing training faster than traditional programs.

Career Opportunities

Career Paths for Graduates

Graduates are well-prepared for diverse roles across Canada's expanding early childhood education sector. The program equips students for positions such as Preschool Classroom Assistant, Childcare Center Educator, Early Intervention Assistant, After-School Program Coordinator, Special Education Assistant, and Child Development Advisor.

Employment Outlook and Incentives:

108,800 new job openings expected across Canada by 2031
$366 million allocated by Ontario to support new childcare providers
86,000 new childcare spaces to open across Ontario by 2026
In-demand employees across Canadian childcare settings

Career Benefits

Strong career prospects with opportunities to positively impact children's futures while preparing for further education as child psychologists, early childhood educators, or lead teachers. Completion possible in 30 instructional weeks compared to programs taking up to 50 weeks.

Program Details

What Students Receive:

Comprehensive training in child development, health and safety, and inclusive education practices
Early childhood lab simulating licensed childcare centers with real-world tools and environments
Expert guidance from childcare professionals with practical field experience
Career Services support with job searches, resumes, interviews, and employment placement

Program Highlights:

30-36 week accelerated program with hybrid online and in-person delivery
Monthly start dates with flexible daytime and evening class options
240 hours hands-on practicum experience in real childcare environments
Financial assistance available for those who qualify

This program ensures students develop skills and knowledge to become essential childcare professionals who keep classrooms organized, ensure children receive needed attention, and serve as stepping stones toward future careers as Early Childhood Educators in Ontario's growing childcare sector.

Search Schools

Provincial Funding

Looking for student aid options offered by your local province? Choose your province of residence below to check out provincial funding options such as grants, loans, scholarships, and bursaries.

*All student funding, whether made available privately or through various government branches, is only approved to those who qualify, by the original source of funding. There are many criteria that each candidate must meet to be approved. Schools can only inform you of what may be available.