Take your First Steps in Early Childhood Education

Next cohort dates to be determined – click on this link to register to our waiting list

Program Objectives

The First Steps to an early Childhood Education Profession college certificate prepares individuals to begin a career in a daycare setting as an “éducateur(rice) non-qualifié(e)”. The certificate is designed to allow individuals to gain a basic understanding of the role of an educator in a daycare.

Following the successful completion of the college certificate, individuals can begin a career in a daycare* or may wish to further their education in the field by obtaining a college diploma that would allow them to then hold the title of “éducateur(rice) qualifié(e)”.

*while this certificate allows a person to begin working in the field, employers may have other hiring requirements not covered by the college certificate.

Competencies Covered

• Knowledge of the profession.
• Knowledge of key elements aimed at the child’s wellbeing, health, and safety in a daycare setting.
• Knowledge of key elements to adopting an educational approach in childcare.
• Knowledge of key elements aimed at the preventive approach in childcare.
• Childcare CPR certification.

Program Details

Duration: 90 hours over 8 weeks.
82 hours of training plus 8 hours CPR training.
Schedule: Tuesdays (9:00 am to noon – 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm) and Thursdays (9:00 am to noon – 1:00 pm to 3:15 pm).
Training Mode: Online.
Language of Training: English.

Intended Audience

Individuals who have an interest in working with children in a daycare setting (0-5 years of age) and who do not have any formal training in early childhood education.

Admission Criteria

To enroll in the program, candidates must meet the following requirements:

• Be 18 years of age or older.
• Be employed or unemployed with no experience in a daycare environment.
• Possess a minimum of a Grade 9 (secondary 3) completed or the equivalent.
• Have a good comprehension, as well as verbal and written skills in English.

These criteria ensure that candidates entering the program are equipped with the foundational knowledge and qualifications necessary for a successful learning experience.

Upcoming Session Dates

To be determined.  Sign up to our waiting list.

Program Cost

This program is entirely FREE!

Registration Process

To register, follow these simple steps:

• Be sure to read the FAQ below to get all your answers.
• Click on this link to complete your registration.
• You can contact us by phone at 450-672-6046 or by email if you need any additional information.

Take your First Steps in Early Childhood Education FAQs

Do I have to be a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident?

As this is a non-credit program, it is open to all.

Do I need a study permit to take the course?

A study permit is not required, as this is a non-credit course.

Which courses are included in the program?

Please refer to the above sections “Program Objectives” and “Competencies Covered”.

What steps can I take after this course to further my studies in early childhood education?

AEC, COUD, RAC, RAC 96 are options available to further your knowledge of the profession.  Click here for more information.

Can I open my own daycare after taking this course?

This program is not designed for that purpose.  There are conditions to open a daycare, set by the MFA.  Visit their website here for more information.

Will I be a certified daycare educator after this training?

No.  This is a non-credit program, therefore you will be eligible to work in a daycare but not eligible to hold the title of certified daycare educator.  More information is available on the MFA site.