School-age Child Care Certificate Program

The focus of this program is on licensed group school-age child care, but it is also relevant for people working in family child care, children's recreation programs and in school settings as Supervision Aides. Themes throughout each course include program planning, behaviour management, safety and supervision, and communication skills. Credential Awarded: Douglas College Continuing Education Certificate. You are welcome to join the program at any time.

First Aid requirements: Emergency Child Care First Aid & CPR Course. 8 hrs (Call The Vital Link at 604-644-4709 for information). First Aid Certificates must be current at the time of completing the School-Age Child Care Program.

Core Courses

• Introduction to School-Age Child Care (24 hours)
• Working with Five-Year Olds (24 hours)
• Working with Six to Eight Year-Olds (24 hours)
• Working with Nine to Twelve Year-Olds (24 hours)
• Leadership and Organizational Skills (24 hours)
• Working with Children Who Need Extra Support (24 hours)
• Emergency Child Care First Aid & CPR Course (8 hours)
• Elective (12 hours) SACC Elective Guidelines

You may use a child care course from Douglas College or from another college for your elective course, provided it is a minimum of 12 hours and has been completed in the past two years. Please call Cheryl Jeffs at 604-527-5161 to inquire about elective courses.

Required textbook (used for all courses in the program): School-Age Care: Theory and Practice. Author: Steve Musson. Available: Douglas College Bookstore, New Westminster Campus 604-527-5015

Introduction to School-Age Child Care

This course focuses on the concepts of child care, introductory developmental theory, self-concept, program planning, safety, behaviour management and child care as a vocation.

Working With Five-Year Olds

This course focuses on the physical, social, emotional and cognitive development of the five-year-old child and examines program planning and guidance strategies to promote positive self-esteem at this age.

Working With Six to Eight-Year Olds

This course follows the growth and development of the child from six to eight years of age and examines how program planning and guidance strategies promote positive self-esteem.

Working With Nine to 12-Year Olds

This course focuses on a vision of the maturing child. Key topics include the concept of personal challenge, effective supervision and the important role of field trips for this age group.

Leadership and Organizational Skills

This course focuses on supervisory skills for managing quality school-age child care programs, leadership, communication skills, team building, policies and procedures and managing change.

Working With Children Who Need Extra Support

This course focuses on the attitudes, knowledge and skills necessary for successful integration. Various types of special needs are introduced and specific tools for program planning are discussed.