Continuous learning is an integral part of professional development as a Child and Youth Counsellor. Whether new to the field of practice or a seasoned professional, it is essential to keep well-informed of best practices, innovations and trends. The courses in this program are offered at three learning levels, designed with a progression of knowledge in mind. The Child and Youth Care Association of Alberta is proud to offer online education programs to its valued members at no additional cost. There is no set time to complete the course material, individuals can work at their own pace based on what their timelines and schedules allow. Participants are awarded a certificate of completion at the end of each learning unit. Each unit of learning will take approximately two hours to complete, making it relatively easy to fit into busy work lives.
Courses and Learning Units
Level 1 – Foundations in Child and Youth Care
This course package is perfect for the new Child and Youth Care Professional or someone interested in refreshing their knowledge of the field of practice. Learners will understand what it means to be a Child and Youth Care Professional by gaining knowledge and skills in the following topic areas.
- Professionalism in Child and Youth Care
- Helping Skills
- Introduction to Working with Families
- Developmental Theories
- Activity Programming
- Introduction to Substance Abuse
- Introduction to Brain Development
- Introduction to Complex Families
- Introduction to Indigenous Awarenes
Level 2 – Core Competencies in Child and Youth Care
This course package is designed to further integrate some of the foundational concepts from Level One, as well as build upon these as CYCCs develop thier skills. Additionally, the modules are based on the knowledge requirements learners need to successfully pass the Child and Youth Care Advanced Practice Certification Exam. Learners will have a clear understanding of theoretical concepts and the transfer of such into daily practice. Topic areas include:
- Professionalism in Child and Youth Care
- Self Care
- Systemic Framework
- Therapeutic Milieu
- Lifespan Development
- Basic Care
- Program Development
- Relationship Development
- Client Service Planning
- Individual Interventions
- Child and Youth Care Work with Families
- Mental Health
- Group Interventions
Level 3 – Advanced Child and Youth Care
Advanced learning is for individuals who are experienced CYCCs and Certified Child and Youth Care professionals. The course package will take the learner to more advanced levels of best practice learning, involving innovative professional development areas of focus.
- Leadership
- Supervision
- Trauma
- Trauma-Informed Practice
- Brain Development
- Advocacy