In order to purchase one of the NACC’s highly regarded programs, the college must be a member of the National Association of Career Colleges.

Early Childhood Assistants (ECA) work alongside Early Childhood Educators to provide developmentally appropriate childcare for children up to age 12.  They are employed in childcare facilities, early learning centres, and school aged children programs.

Graduates of the NACC ECA program have received thorough training and practical experience in areas vital to child development and care.  Through classroom instruction, discussion, observation, group work, demonstration, assignments, and evaluations, they cover theory, case studies and skills needed for childcare. Through hands-on practical opportunities they develop the necessary abilities to succeed in a childcare or early learning center.

The Early Childhood Assistant Program provides the foundational skills necessary to move into an Early Childhood Education Program.

Graduates may find employment in a variety of settings including:

  • Childcare Centres
  • Daycare Centres
  • Kindergartens
  • Agencies for Exceptional Children
  • After School Programs

The Scope of Responsibilities for a ECA is as follows:

  • Assist in the day-to-day operations of a childcare centre or early learning centre
  • Support early childhood educators in carrying out programs that promote the physical, cognitive, emotional and social development of children
  • Provide a nurturing and caring environment where young children can thrive
  • Maintain and professional approach while observing and guiding children daily
  • Demonstrate effective communication skills with parents, children, and co-workers
  • Encourage socialization as children play together
  • Meet nutritional requirements of young children in daily meal planning
  • Supervise Children during indoor and outdoor play and rest periods
  • Guide and assist children in the development of proper eating, dressing and toilet habits
  • Maintain necessary records
  • First Aid and CPR

WHY YOU SHOULD HIRE AN NACC ECA PROGRAM GRADUATE:

Benefits to potential employers hiring graduates of the Common Standards Group Early Childhood Assistant Program include:

  • Assurance that graduates have been trained to meet established learning outcomes and program standards
  • Assurance that the graduate has the knowledge required to do the job as verified by third party testing
  • Assurance that the skills required to do the job have been verified prior to graduation

Program Length:

Total program hours: 1000 hours

NACC Final Theory Examination:

The NACC final examination is an on-line examination that evaluates the theory component of the training and determines whether the candidate has the required level of knowledge to do the job safely and effectively. All students write the NACC final theory examination at the end of the placement. To schedule your final exam, please speak with your college representative.

For more information on the Early Childhood Assistant Program, please contact Sarah by email at sriaz@nacc.ca.