Child And Youth Care

Program Overview

The Child and Youth Care program at Centennial College is designed to equip students with the essential knowledge and skills to advocate for children, youth, and their families. This program emphasizes the importance of encouraging resourcefulness and self-advocacy among young individuals. It spans three years and covers various principles and philosophies of relational child and youth care practice, focusing on child-centered, developmental, and ecological perspectives. Graduates will be prepared to provide critical support, including prevention and early intervention strategies, assessment, treatment, and counseling for children and adolescents facing various challenges. This program aims to develop competent professionals who can make a significant impact in the mental health field.

Program Structure

The Child and Youth Care program is structured to be completed in three years, consisting of six semesters. The program is delivered in a hybrid format, combining both in-person and online learning experiences. Key features of the program include:

• Three specialized field practicums in diverse settings, allowing students to integrate classroom learning with hands-on experience.
• Courses primarily taught face-to-face, with some components offered online or in a blended format.
• Opportunities for students to engage in intra-professional collaboration with other programs within the college.

This comprehensive structure ensures that students are well-prepared for their future careers in child and youth care.

Featured Experiences

The Child and Youth Care program offers a variety of unique experiences that enhance learning and professional development:

• Three field practicums, including placements in school boards, residential settings, and specialized environments.
• Certification in SafeTALK (Suicide Prevention), ASIST (Suicide Intervention), and Positive Space training.
• A specially-designed communications lab for interactive learning activities and counseling simulations.
• Access to a Global Citizenship and Equity (GC&E) Portfolio to document engagement with the college's competencies.
• Collaboration opportunities with other programs, such as Police Foundations, to broaden professional perspectives.

Career Options

Graduates of the Child and Youth Care program can pursue a variety of rewarding career paths in Canada, including:

• Child and Youth Care Practitioner: Work directly with children and youth in various settings, providing support and guidance.
• Youth Outreach Worker: Engage with at-risk youth in the community, offering resources and support to help them navigate challenges.
• Child Life Specialist: Support children and families in healthcare settings, helping them cope with medical procedures and hospital stays.
• Youth Advocate: Work to promote the rights and well-being of youth, ensuring their voices are heard in various systems.
• Community Justice Worker: Assist youth involved in the justice system, providing support and rehabilitation services.

These career options highlight the diverse opportunities available to graduates, allowing them to make a meaningful impact in the lives of children and youth across Canada.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.