Overview
(Formerly Child and Youth Worker program)
Child and Youth Care practitioners are specialists in facilitating change in children, youth and young adults who are experiencing a range of social, emotional and/or behavioural challenges. Children and youth respond to the impact of change, stress, loss, poverty, violence, abuse and neglect with a range of emotions and behaviours including confusion, anger, withdrawal, aggression, hopelessness, violence, and suicide. Many of the children or youth experience numerous challenges and may have a variety of diagnoses.
Additionally, increasing numbers of these youth are in conflict with the law and/or are receiving therapeutic intervention. Understanding the individual and the unique nature of his/her response is therefore an important first task. Child and Youth Care practitioners are a valuable resource to children, youth and their families in this process. They commit themselves to understanding and interacting in therapeutic relationships with these children, youth, and their families to promote and facilitate positive change.
Frequently Asked Questions about the program can be found here
Program Details
Program Highlights
Program Outline
2023-2024
This course provides students with the foundational skills and knowledge needed for developing and maintaining professional relationships with children, youth and families. Students explore the use of communication skills and engagement strategies to build positive interactions, understanding and trust within client-centered approaches, including topics such as strength-based focus, safety, confidentiality, empathy, empowerment, presence, and privilege. Students examine the ethics and legislation relevant to the Child and Youth Care profession, while participating in active learning models to integrate skill development with their own relational practice.
This course provides students with an introduction to the topic of self-awareness, self-care and well-being with an emphasis on the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual dimensions of well-being. Students develop the ability to reflect on the impact of self in relation to others in the context of the Child and Youth Care profession. Topics of discussion may include: defining the self, vicarious trauma, distorted thinking, emotional regulation, recognizing personal strengths, reflections on power and privilege, and cultivating wellness.
In this course, students are introduced to the professional practice of Child and Youth Care. Students examine the core principles, characteristics, and connections between the key domains of the field. Students explore career opportunities with children, youth and families; the history and context of the profession; self-awareness; and intervention strategies needed for success in the program and field. Course content is delivered through a variety of interactive and collaborative learning methods.
This course is designed to help students develop and practice the communication skills needed to succeed in college and workforce environments. Emphasis is placed on improving foundational communication strategies-reading, writing, listening, and speaking—and on developing research and critical thinking skills.
In this course, students apply relational practice techniques in counselling situations from a culturally sensitive perspective with children, youth, and families. Students use counselling skills, such as empathetic response, clarifying questions, reflection, focusing, summarizing, and crisis techniques, in role-playing activities to support clients’ needs. This active learning course is provided through individual and group learning.
This course prepares students for fieldwork practicum by exploring the roles and responsibilities of the Child and Youth Care Practitioner and developing career-readiness and professionalism skills. Emphasis is placed on performance standards, code of ethics, and professional development. Students learn to set goals that align with their areas of interest in the Child and Youth Care field.
Prerequisite(s): CAYW110 + CAYW111 + CAYW113 + CAYW114 + CAYW1015
This introductory practicum takes place in a field setting that permits students to engage in the foundational principles of Child and Youth Care practice. Students work with a faculty member and an agency supervisor to debrief and analyze placement experiences. Students take responsibility for their learning through self-assessments, discussing observations, and seeking support and supervision. Evaluations reflect the domains of the Child and Youth Care practice. Guided seminar discussions with faculty and peers assist students in processing field related experiences and identifying how to relate theory to practice.
Prerequisite(s): CAYW125 + CAYW112 + CAYW120 + CAYW121 + CAYW122 + CAYW311 + BEHA5
In this course, students examine the importance of documentation in the Child and Youth Care field. The procedures and techniques relating to effective clinical recording are demonstrated through various case examples, templates and forms. Through in-class demonstrations and labs, students practice and develop specific documentation skills in various record keeping and report writing formats that follow service delivery progression from intakes through to discharge planning.
This course builds on the introductory practicum by providing students with experiential learning in a field-related setting that permits the student to continue to engage in the principles of Child and Youth Care practice. The focus of the course is on developing self-reflective practice with an emphasis on communication, professionalism, and clinical skills. Evaluations reflect the domains of the Child and Youth Care practice. Guided seminar discussions with faculty and peers encourage students to process learning and apply theory to practice.
Prerequisite(s): CAYW1025
In this course, students examine ways of supporting families as a Child and Youth Care Practitioner. This course provides an overview of family systems theory, family dynamics and family functioning. Students demonstrate relationship building, intervention, counselling and mental health techniques within the framework of working with diverse families.
This course explores how advocacy and activism contribute to social change for children, youth and families in the field of Child and Youth Care. Students practice their role as an advocate in inter-professional situations. Further, this course examines the idea of social activism from an anti-oppression and cultural competent perspective while recognizing privilege and status within society. The course is provided from a theory to active practice model, allowing students to develop competencies for societal change.
This advanced field practicum integrates the students’ cumulative knowledge with professional development. Advanced client engagement, intervention, case planning, and reflective practice skills are developed throughout the course. Students engage with clinical supervision to improve their professional practice. Guided seminar discussions with faculty and peers encourage students to enhance quality of service by integrating selected theoretical material into their Child and Youth Care practice.
Prerequisite(s): CAYW1026 + CAYW210 + CAYW211 + CAYW 200 + CAYW214 + CAYW 226
This course examines diverse populations relevant to the field of Child and Youth Care. Students explore their perspectives both personally and professionally, utilizing self-reflection and self-awareness to begin to build an inclusive, culturally-competent practice. The concept of power and privilege is discussed so students can address personal bias in their practice. Students develop strategies to promote sensitivity to the needs of diverse populations.
This course provides an overview of human sexuality and how it is perceived in contemporary society. An understanding of sexuality and associated typical and atypical behavior are explored, including possible implications when working with at risk youth. This course is also geared towards enhancing the student's development in teaching sex education to clients; developing comfortableness with discussions and counseling sessions related to sexual issues; and being able to competently and compassionately deal with the sensitive sexual issues that arise when working with children, youth and young adults.
Prerequisite(s): CAYW112 + CAYW121
This course focuses on vulnerable and at risk children and youth who may be involved in the youth justice system. The history of legislation pertaining to children and youth in conflict with the law and the changing perspective over time is examined. Students are introduced to the rights of children and youth in terms of the justice system and strategies to reduce recidivism. The course analyzes how the practice of Child and Youth Care works in collaboration with the police, the courts and the youth justice system to promote positive change for children, youth and families.
Prerequisite(s): COMM11
In this final field practicum course, students synthesize knowledge and skill to prepare themselves for entry into the Child and Youth Care field. Students refine professional relationships and continuously enhance quality of service by participating effectively as a team member and networking with community resources. Students solidify their reflective practice and self-care approach through reflective exercises with peers, clinical supervisors, and supporting faculty in seminar groups and field interactions.
Prerequisite(s): CAYW1027
In this course, students research and analyze current issues and trends affecting the Child and Youth Care Field. Students have the opportunity to explore literature and resources or to pursue certification in areas that reflect emerging trends and changes in the profession. Topics are enhanced by a variety of learning methods, such as guest speakers and/or professional development opportunities.
Requirements
Admission Requirements
Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) with the majority of Grade 11 and 12 courses at the C, U or M level including the following prerequisites:
- Grade 12 English at the C or U level
- Grade 11 Math
For OSSD equivalency options, see Admission Requirements.
If you are missing prerequisite courses, enroll in the Career/College Prep program - free for Ontario residents who are 19 years or older.
Health Requirements
Immunization - Communicable Disease Requirements
Completion of the Immunization - Communicable Disease Form is a mandatory condition for your clinical/practical placement. THIS FORM IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY.
Download your Immunization - Communicable Disease Form
Questions about completing this form can be sent to immunizations@sl.on.ca.
Note: Full-time student coverage for vaccines received on or after September 1 can be claimed under the Student Sickness & Accident Insurance Plan.
Other Requirements
Criminal Background Check
Applicants are advised that Criminal Background Checks (CBC) conducted by the Canadian Police Information Centre (CPIC) are required for programs with field or clinical placements. Certain criminal convictions may prevent participation in placements and program completion may not be possible. Attaining and paying for a CBC and Vulnerable Sector Screening (VSS) is the responsibility of the student, and these may have to be renewed every three to six months. Applicants with criminal records are advised to contact the Associate Dean/Campus Dean of the respective school prior to applying. Criminal Background Checks should not be ordered, until the student is advised to do so by Child and Youth Care (CYC) Faculty/Student Placement Facilitator (SPF).
Placement
Complete SLC Placement Requirements
- 6 Training Modules
- Student Declaration/Oath of Confidentiality
- Student Covid 19 Waiver
- CPIC - VULNERABLE SECTOR
- Immunization
Questions:
website: http://www.placementatslc.ca/
Placement agencies/partners:
- LDSB
- ALCDSB
- Boys and Girls Club of Kingston
- Resolve
- Pathways to Education
- Kingston Community Health Centre, Immigrant Services Kingston and Area
- Home Base Housing
- Youth Diversion
- Quintilian Private School
- Family and Children's Services of Frontenac Lennox and Addington
- Community Living
Fees
2023-2024
Fees are estimates only. Tuition is based on two semesters.
Fees are estimates only. Tuition is based on two semesters.
Kingston
Our Kingston campus has seen significant renovation over the past few years, including a brand new Student Life and Innovation Centre that houses a new gymnasium, fitness centre, pub, and more.


Career Opportunities
- Specialized educational programs
- Schools/residential treatment centres
- Group homes/youth detention centres
- Before- and after-care school programs
- Street/community work with children/youth
- Hospitals, children’s mental health centres
- Family and children’s services
- Self-employment initiatives
- Family Access Worker, Family and Children's Services of Frontenac Lennox and Addington
- Deployment Counsellor, Family Military Resource Centre
- Educational Assistant, LDSB & ALCDSB
- Youth Worker, ALCDSB
- Residential Support Worker, Program Facilitator, Community Living
- Police Officer, Kingston Police
- Emergency Support Worker, Home Base Housing
- Site Support Worker, Student Parent Support Worker, Pathways to Education
- Youth Outreach Worker, Youth Diversion
- Youth in Transition Worker, Resolve
- Program Facilitator, Boys and Girls Club of Kingston
Testimonials
Program Contacts
Program Contact
Tanea Fortin (she/her)
CYW, B.A. CYC, CYC (cert.)
Professor/ Field Placement Lead Child and Youth Care Program
St Lawrence College, Kingston Campus
Office #33070
613-544-5400 ext:6797
tfortin@sl.on.ca
Admissions Information
Click here to message Recruitment.