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Early Childcare Professional Certificate

Start your career in early learning with practical skills, real confidence, and two recognized certificates.

This fully online certificate in Early Childcare Professional Certificate prepares you for meaningful roles in childcare and early education settings.

Study 100% online, at your own pace, and learn how to support children’s development, communication, and well-being in safe, nurturing environments. 

You’ll develop hands-on knowledge in child development, classroom support strategies, behaviour guidance, and inclusive childcare practices — all designed to help you confidently assist educators and support young learners. Perfect for anyone starting in daycare, preschool, or early learning support roles.

Flexible, self-paced, and career-focused, this program allows you to build job-ready skills on your schedule.

*Cost reflects available grants.

Format

Online
Self-paced

Duration

6 weeks

*120 hours, self-paced with

 12 month access

Outcome:

Certificate

Start Date:

Start any time

Register to start

Tuition: 

$1,295

Grants:

$400

Skills Grant

Your cost:

$895

Per course

Control how you learn and progress

Your life is full — work, family, commitments. These online certificates are built to fit your schedule, not the other way around.

100% Online

Every lesson is delivered on demand — no live classes or fixed schedules.

Your schedule

Study between shifts, on weekends, or whenever you have a few spare minutes.

Your pace

Move through modules at your own speed. Pick up right where you left off, on any device — anytime.
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Early Learning Courses:

Build a stronger foundation in early learning by completing both Level 1 and Level 2 together.

Graduate with Two Certificates — and Save Even More

You save an additional $250 when you enrol in both levels together.
Limited-Time Offer – Enrol Today!

Begin today. Learning that starts when you’re ready.

 No intake dates. No waiting periods. Simply register and start your learning journey right away, with instant access to our learning platform.

01

Complete your registration

Register online and complete your initial payment. Once your enrolment is confirmed, you’re officially part of York College — no waiting for semester start dates.

02

Instant access to our learning platform

Log in to your student learning system and access all course materials instantly. Lessons, resources, and assessments are available as soon as you’re enrolled.

03

Learn at your own pace

Start learning right away and move through the program on your schedule. Study when it works for you — pause, resume, and progress without deadlines or fixed class times.

No semesters. No waiting lists. Just register and start.

Who this program is for?

This dual certificate is ideal if you:
  • Want to begin a career working with children
  • Are exploring early childhood as a long-term profession
  • Need a flexible online program that fits your schedule
  • Are returning to the workforce and seeking meaningful employment
  • Plan to pursue further education in Early Childhood Education
  • No prior childcare experience is required — just motivation, compassion, and a willingness to learn.

Discover What It Takes to Thrive in Early Learning.

Supporting children during their early years requires more than patience — it requires knowledge, structure, and intentional care.
Throughout this program, you’ll develop:
  • Strong Foundations in Child Development – Understand how children grow, learn, and build social-emotional skills.
  • Effective Classroom Support Skills – Assist educators in delivering structured, play-based learning experiences.
  • Positive Behaviour Strategies – Encourage cooperation, confidence, and emotional regulation.
  • Inclusive & Safe Learning Practices – Support diverse learners while prioritizing safety and well-being.
  • Professional Communication Skills – Collaborate with families and childcare teams effectively.
You won’t just learn theory — you’ll build practical skills you can apply immediately in childcare settings.

Where This Certificate Can Take You.

Completing the Early Learning & Childcare Support Dual Certificate prepares you for entry-level and support roles in:
  • Daycare & Childcare Centre
  • Preschool & Early Learning Programs
  • Before- and After-School Programs
  • Community Early Learning Centres
  • Home-Based Childcare Settings
This program can also serve as a stepping stone toward:
  • Early Childhood Assistant (ECA) pathways
  • Early Childhood Education (ECE) diploma programs
With two certificates and practical training, you’ll enter the field with confidence and a competitive edge.

Certification included.

  • Complete the course & receive Certification

    Upon successful completion of the program, you will receive a digital certificate in PDF format. The certificate can be downloaded for your records, shared with employers as proof of completion, and added to your LinkedIn and other professional profiles.
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Need help deciding?

We know choosing the right program is a big decision. Ask us anything about our Community & Social Services certificates — programs, tuition, funding, or how to get started. 

Our team will help you find the path that fits your goals, your schedule, and your budget.

  • Get guidance on program fit
  • Learn about payment plans and funding
  • Understand timelines and next steps

Frequently asked questions:

Are payment plans available?

Yes. Monthly payment plans are available for all certificate programs. You can choose your preferred plan during checkout.

When can I start?

Once your initial payment is processed, you’ll receive your login details by email. You’re welcome to start the program right away or at a time that works best for you.

Is financial aid accepted?

We accept a variety of funding sources, including Better Jobs Ontario, WSIB, ODSP, Ontario Works, Indigenous Education funding, private student loans, and RESP.

What's included in tuition?

Your tuition includes complete access to all course materials, 26 hours of comprehensive online training, dedicated student support throughout your program, and your official York College certificate upon successful completion.

How long does it take to complete the program?

The duration listed on each program page reflects the minimum estimated completion time. Since our programs are self-paced, you may take up to 12 months to complete your coursework. Many students finish sooner, while others choose to move at a more flexible pace that fits their schedule.

How do I access the learning system? Are there any computer requirements?

Our learning platform is web-based and can be accessed through any major internet browser, including Chrome, Safari, Edge, and Firefox. There is no special software required. A computer or laptop with reliable internet connection and an up-to-date browser are recommended for the best experience.

You may also access the platform on a tablet or mobile device. However, for completing assignments and viewing certain course materials, a laptop or desktop computer is recommended.

Will I receive a certificate upon completion?

Yes. Upon successful completion of the program, you will receive a digital certificate in PDF format. The certificate can be downloaded for your records, shared with employers as proof of completion, and added to your LinkedIn and other professional profiles.

Can I claim the course costs on my taxes?

The federal government recognizes that the nature of work is changing and that many Canadians need to upgrade their skills to stay competitive.

The Canada Training Credit (CTC) is a refundable tax credit designed to help offset the cost of eligible training programs. For full details, please consult the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) website.

Key highlights of the Canada Training Credit:

Available to Canadian workers 26 to 65 years old
You must be a Canadian resident who files an income tax and benefit return
You must have paid eligible tuition or training fees to an approved educational institution in the year you claim the credit
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