Diploma in Early Childhood Care and Education
Diploma in Early Childhood Care and Education (DECE)
Early childhood care and education are crucial for a child’s social, emotional, physical and cognitive development. The formative years (0-5 years) is often considered the most important stage of a child’s life. Therefore, getting appropriate attention and education during this period significantly influences the learning and development of children and lays the foundations for a bright future.
The importance of early childhood care and education is recognized by national and international organizations such as UNICEF.
The Diploma in Early Childhood Care and Education (DECE) is a one year program that allows individuals working in the sector of early childhood care and education to gain continuous knowledge and skills required to foster holistic development in children. DECE professionals work in diverse settings such as daycare centres, preschools, pre-primary classes, nursery schools etc.
The DECE program equips learners to gain deep insights into the process of child development and by developing better understanding of children’s rights and needs. Students learn about organising the right developmental play activities, interacting with the community and providing basic health, nutrition etc to children in need.
On pursuing DECE, professionals acquire the skills required to identify children with special needs and formulate appropriate intervention strategies for their care and development.
Individuals who are interested in making a difference in young lives, and want to influence the development of future generations should pursue the DECE course. It is also a great career option for creative individuals with excellent communication skills and patience.
In India DECE is widely recognized by The Ministry of Women and Child Development (MWCD).
Some of the subjects taught in the course include organization of co-curricular activities, communication skills, fundamental computer knowledge, nutrition, health, hygiene, and First Aid, planning and implementing a daily schedule There are ample job opportunities for graduates of this course in diverse settings.
DECE has many rewarding benefits and as the demand for preschool teachers is growing manifold with a 10% increase than other occupations.
DECE is a one-year diploma program with two semesters.
Class 12th in any stream from a recognised board of education.
Upon successful completion of the course, candidates can apply for various job roles such as Childhood Education Marketer, Primary school teacher, Elementary school teacher, Operations manager, Academic Coordinator, Early Childhood Education Content Developer, CareTaker.
With a diploma in early childhood education and care, individuals can also set up their daycare centres.