Early Childhood Education

This program's former name was Early Learning and Child Care. The program name changed July 1, 2022.

With a class called play, you know you’re in the right place.

Learn everything you need to know to create experiences and environments that enhance their development from infancy to school age in an early learning setting. 

As you work towards your one-year certificate and two-year diploma, you’ll learn how to:

• use observation skills to create experiences for young children based on their interests and needs.
• design learning environments that invite play and exploration both indoors and outside in our new natural playscape.
• develop relationships and support children and their families.
• run an early learning program.

Each semester has a practicum. Your third practicum is unique to Lakeland. You and your classmates will set up and host a play program for the community. Together, you’ll:

• plan and promote the play program.
• hold an open house for families.
• create experiences and environments for the children.
• guide children's learning and reflect on the experience.

These programs are also available online (see the important dates schedule) or in French the certificate (see Éducation à la petite enfance).