Child And Youth Care

Program Overview

The Child and Youth Care program at Fanshawe College is designed to equip students with essential skills to provide compassionate care to children and youth. This program focuses on understanding family dynamics and addressing emotional and behavioral challenges faced by young individuals. Students will engage in hands-on learning through field placements, allowing them to apply their knowledge in real-world settings. The program emphasizes the importance of special education and assistive technology, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to support diverse needs in various environments.

Program Structure

The Child and Youth Care program is structured as a three-year advanced diploma that spans a total of 90 weeks. The program includes:

• Comprehensive coursework covering family issues, emotional and behavioral challenges, and therapeutic practices.
• Three full-time field placements, providing over 1,500 hours of practical experience.
• Opportunities to develop counseling skills and engage with various child-centered issues.
• Focus on professionalism and interpersonal skills relevant to the field.

This program is designed to prepare students for a dynamic career in child and youth care, combining academic learning with extensive field experience to ensure graduates are ready to meet the challenges of the profession.

Featured Experiences

• Field placements every other semester, allowing students to work directly with clients and apply their skills in real-world settings.
• Over 1,500 hours of hands-on experience throughout the program.
• Engagement with experienced instructors who provide insights into family issues and children's emotional challenges.
• Development of counseling skills and understanding of mental health issues.
• Focus on diverse populations and inclusive practices, preparing students to work with various communities.

Career Options

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

• Child and Youth Care Worker: Support children and youth facing emotional, behavioral, and social challenges in various settings.
• Residential Treatment Worker: Provide care and support in group homes or residential facilities for youth in need.
• School Support Worker: Assist students with emotional and behavioral difficulties within educational environments.
• Community Resource Worker: Connect families and youth with community resources and support services.
• Child Protection Worker: Work with families and children involved in the child welfare system to ensure safety and well-being.

These roles require a strong understanding of child development, therapeutic practices, and the ability to advocate for the needs of children and youth in various contexts.

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