Not all children and youth receive the same opportunities and resources to succeed in life. In a world where inequities still exist, Humber’s Child and Youth Care advanced diploma program prepares you to promote the optimal development and care of children, youth and their families through a holistic lens. Students develop skills in assessing needs, advocacy, developing and facilitating programs, and creating safer spaces through the application of an equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging lens. Students will also learn how to use therapeutic activities and planned interventions to support and facilitate positive change and growth. In addition to three field experiences, the program provides knowledge in infant, child and adolescent development; child and youth care relational practice principles; family dynamics; evidence-based or evidence-informed intervention strategies; group dynamics; mental health and wellness; interviewing and counselling; cultural humility; relevant ethical and legislative practices, trauma-informed care and therapeutic activities.

You will learn that an essential component of professional practice is self-awareness with many courses emphasizing self-reflection and the classroom being a professional practice environment for skill development. Your desire to help and emotional maturity will help you meet the demands of working with children and youth with complex needs.

• Canadian Academic English Language Assessment [min. 550] or Test of English as a Foreign Language (Internet Based)

The following will be compulsory when applying to prospective placements during the program.

• Valid Standard First Aid with CPR-C and Automated External Defibrillator (AED). Documentation will be requested during your program of study every semester prior to the assignment of student internships.
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• Medical Certificate of Health including immunization against Hepatitis B (prior to field placement component of the program); medical forms will be provided to students to complete one semester prior to the work placement.
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• Community partners who provide field placement opportunities will require students to undergo a vulnerable sector check for criminal offences. It is important for potential students to understand that this requirement is beyond the control of Humber. Students must meet the screening criteria of work placement agencies. A student with a record may not be approved to work by the agencies, and this may prevent students from completing the work placement component necessary to fulfill the requirements of the diploma. Applicants who have a criminal record are encouraged to apply for a pardon, if eligible, prior to or upon admission to the program.