Child and Youth Care

Program Overview

The program emphasizes practical learning through classroom theory, guest speakers, experiential activities, and two work-based practicums. Graduates are qualified for jobs as youth workers, family support workers, group home staff, community outreach workers, and classroom assistants in various settings. The program is offered in a part-time format through distance education, allowing students to study while maintaining other commitments.

Program Outline

The program emphasizes practical learning through classroom theory, guest speakers, experiential activities, and two work-based practicums. Graduates are qualified for jobs as youth workers, family support workers, group home staff, community outreach workers, and classroom assistants in various settings, including community-based programs, schools, residential treatment centers, and recreation programs. Specific objectives include:

• Developing a strong understanding of child and youth development, family dynamics, and the impact of social and cultural factors.
• Learning about various interventions and strategies for supporting children, youth, and families facing challenges.
• Acquiring communication, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills essential for building therapeutic relationships.
• Gaining practical experience through supervised practicum placements in community agencies.

Outline:

Program Content:

The CYCW program covers a wide range of topics, including:

• Child and Youth Development: Understanding the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development of children and youth across various stages.
• Family Dynamics: Exploring family structures, functions, and the impact of cultural and societal factors on families.
• Indigenous Awareness: Learning about Indigenous history, culture, and perspectives on child and youth care.
• Addictions and the Criminal Justice System: Understanding the impact of addictions and involvement with the criminal justice system on children, youth, and families.
• Behavioural Intervention Strategies: Learning about different approaches to managing challenging behaviour in children and youth.
• Therapeutic Activities: Developing skills to facilitate therapeutic activities and programs for children and youth.
• Communication, Employability, and Problem-Solving Skills: Building effective communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills essential for success in the field.
• Crisis Prevention/Self-Protection Strategies: Learning about strategies for preventing and managing crisis situations.
• Planning and Implementing Activities: Developing skills to plan, implement, and evaluate activities and programs for children and youth.

Program Structure:

The CYCW program is offered in a part-time format through distance education. The program consists of three semesters, with each semester lasting approximately 12 weeks. Students typically take two courses per semester, with each course requiring approximately 15 hours of study per week.

Course Schedule:

The specific course schedule for the CYCW program varies depending on the semester. However, a typical semester includes courses such as:

• Semester 1:
• Interpersonal Communications
• Professionalism in Child and Youth Care
• Child and Youth Care Practices 1
• Family Dynamics in Child and Youth Care
• Behaviour Supports in Child and Youth Care
• Employability Skills
• Health Promotion in Child and Youth Care
• Sociology 1
• Semester 2:
• Culture and Diversity
• Therapeutic Planning in Child and Youth Care
• Addictions in Child and Youth Care
• Human Growth and Development
• Child and Youth Care Practicum 1
• Sociology 2
• Semester 3:
• Child and Youth Care Practicum 2

Individual Modules:

Each course in the CYCW program covers specific modules or topics. For example, the Interpersonal Communications course includes modules on self-awareness, perception, verbal and nonverbal communication, listening skills, conflict resolution, and creating positive communication climates.

Assessment:

Assessment Methods:

The CYCW program uses a variety of assessment methods to evaluate student learning, including:

• Assignments: Students complete written assignments, projects, and presentations to demonstrate their understanding of course concepts.
• Exams: Students write mid-term and final exams to assess their knowledge of course material.
• Practicum Evaluations: Students are evaluated on their performance during their practicum placements by their supervisors.
• Participation: Active participation in class discussions, group activities, and other learning experiences is also considered.
However, general criteria include:
• Application: Applying knowledge and skills to real-world situations.
• Critical Thinking: Analyzing information, evaluating different perspectives, and formulating thoughtful conclusions.
• Communication: Communicating effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Professionalism: Demonstrating ethical and professional behavior in all interactions.

Teaching:

Teaching Methods:

The CYCW program utilizes various teaching methods, including:

• Lectures: Instructors deliver lectures to introduce key concepts and theories.
• Seminars: Small-group discussions allow for in-depth exploration of topics and student interaction.
• Case Studies: Analyzing real-world scenarios helps students apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations.
• Role-playing: Students practice their skills in simulated scenarios to develop competency in working with children, youth, and families.
• Guest Speakers: Experts in the field of child and youth care share their experiences and insights with students.
• Experiential Learning Activities: Students participate in hands-on activities, simulations, and projects to gain practical experience.

Faculty:

The CYCW program is taught by experienced instructors with expertise in child and youth care, social work, education, psychology, and other relevant fields. Instructors are committed to creating a supportive learning environment where students can develop their knowledge, skills, and professional identity.

• Indigenous perspectives: The program integrates Indigenous knowledge, values, and perspectives into the curriculum.
• Strength-based practice: Students learn to focus on the strengths and resilience of children, youth, and families.
• Relationship-based practice: Students develop their ability to build and maintain therapeutic relationships with clients.
• Reflective practice: Students are encouraged to reflect on their experiences and learning throughout the program.

Careers:

Potential Career Paths:

Graduates of the CYCW program are qualified for a variety of positions in the child and youth care field, including:

• Youth Worker: Providing support and guidance to at-risk youth in various settings, such as schools, community centers, and group homes.
• Family Support Worker: Assisting families facing challenges, such as poverty, domestic violence, or mental health issues.
• Group Home Staff: Working in residential settings to provide care and supervision for children and youth in need of out-of-home placement.
• Community Outreach Worker: Connecting with children and youth in the community to provide support and services.
• Classroom Assistant: Assisting teachers in classrooms with children and youth who have special needs or require additional support.
• Other Opportunities: Graduates may also pursue careers in related fields such as social work, education, counseling, or child protection.

Career Opportunities:

The CYCW program prepares graduates for a variety of career opportunities in different settings, including:

• Community-based child and youth programs: Providing services to children, youth, and families in their communities.
• School-based programs: Working in schools to support students with social, emotional, or behavioral challenges.
• Residential treatment centers: Providing care and treatment for children and youth with mental health issues or behavioral disorders.
• Recreation programs: Planning and facilitating recreational activities for children, youth, and families.
• Home-based care: Providing in-home support and services to children, youth, and families.
• Child and youth advocacy: Working to promote the rights and well-being of children and youth.
• Community development: Contributing to initiatives that improve the lives of children, youth, and families in their communities.

Career Outcomes:

Graduates of the CYCW program are well-prepared to enter the workforce and make a positive impact on the lives of children, youth, and families. The program provides graduates with the knowledge, skills, and values needed to succeed in diverse career settings.

Other:

• Admission Requirements: Completion of Grade 12 with specific course prerequisites.
• Tuition and Fees: Approximately $8,280 for the 2023-24 academic year.
• Part-time Delivery: The program is offered in a part-time format through distance education, allowing students to study while maintaining other commitments.
• Practicum Placements: Students complete two mandatory practicum placements in community agencies to gain hands-on experience.
• Accreditation: The CYCW program is accredited by the Canadian Association for Child and Youth Care (CACCYC).