June 11, 2025 | British Columbia

Are you passionate about working with children and helping them learn and grow during their most formative years? Do you find fulfillment in guiding young minds and nurturing the emotional, cognitive, and social development of children? If so, a career as a Registered Early Childhood Educator (RECE) in Canada might be your ideal path. 
 

RECEs play a critical role in the lives of children, families, and communities. They help children from birth to age 12 develop foundational skills, encouraging creativity, self-confidence, independence, and lifelong learning habits. This article will walk you through everything you need to know about becoming a registered early childhood educator in Canada from educational requirements and certification steps to career prospects and how the Early Childhood Education Certificate program at CDI College can set you up for success. 

What Is a Registered Early Childhood Educator (RECE)? 
 

A Registered Early Childhood Educator (RECE) is a trained professional who works with young children in educational and care-based environments such as: 
 

• Daycare centers 
• Preschools 
• Kindergarten classrooms 
• Early learning programs 
• Community based children’s services 
   

RECEs are not merely babysitters. They are educators who design developmentally appropriate, play-based curricula that promote the physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development of children. Their work fosters positive early learning experiences and helps build the foundation for a child’s academic and personal future. 

Why Become a Registered Early Childhood Educator? 
 

Choosing a career as a RECE isn’t just about employment; it’s about making a lasting difference. Here are just a few reasons this field is both rewarding and in demand: 
 

• High demand across Canada due to population growth and increased awareness of early childhood development. 
   
• Meaningful work that impacts children during their most critical developmental years. 
   
• Diverse job settings, including public and private childcare centers, early learning centers, and elementary schools. 
   
• Pathways to career advancement, such as becoming a daycare supervisor, special needs educator, or program administrator. 
   
• Job satisfaction, as ECEs often build deep, lasting relationships with children and their families. 

How to Become a Registered Early Childhood Educator in Canada: Step by Step 
 

Becoming a RECE in Canada involves formal education, practical training, and certification. Here’s a comprehensive step by step guide: 
 

Step 1: Meet the Basic Eligibility Requirements 
 

To begin your journey, you must: 
 

• Be at least 18 years old 
• Have a high school diploma or equivalent 
• Demonstrate good character and a passion for working with children 
   

Step 2: Complete a Recognized Early Childhood Education Program 
 

This is the most critical step in your journey. You must enroll in and graduate from a provincially or territorially recognized Early Childhood Education (ECE) program. At CDI College, the Early Childhood Education Certificate program is recognized by the ECE Registry of British Columbia, ensuring that you meet all educational criteria required for provincial certification. 
 

The curriculum at CDI College includes: 
 

• Child growth and development 
• Curriculum planning 
• Health, safety, and nutrition 
• Inclusive practice and diversity 
• Guidance and behavior management 
• Daycare operations and administration 
   

This structured approach prepares you to meet the unique needs of young learners in a variety of settings. 
 

Step 3: Gain Practical Experience 

Most ECE programs include mandatory practicum hours where students work directly with children under the guidance of licensed educators. At CDI College, students gain over 410 hours of hands-on practicum experience, giving them real world exposure to daycare environments and the confidence to enter the workforce upon graduation. 
 

Step 4: Pass a Criminal Record and Vulnerable Sector Check 
 

To ensure child safety, all aspiring RECEs must complete: 
 

• Criminal record check 
• Vulnerable sector screening 
   

This step is typically done prior to practicum placements and again when applying for certification. 
 

Step 5: Apply for Certification with Your Province or Territory 
 

Each province or territory in Canada has its own regulatory body for early childhood educators. Here are a few examples: 
 

• Ontario: College of Early Childhood Educators (CECE) 
• British Columbia: ECE Registry, Ministry of Education and Child Care 
• Alberta: Alberta Child Care Staff Certification Office 
• Manitoba: Manitoba Early Learning and Child Care Program 
   

You will need to submit: 
 

• Application form 
• Academic transcripts 
• Practicum records 
• Criminal background check 
• Application fee 
   

After approval, you will receive your RECE designation and license to work in your region. 
 

Step 6: Maintain Your Certification 
 

Certification isn’t a onetime task it requires: 
 

• Renewal every 1 to 3 years (depending on province) 
• Ongoing professional development such as workshops, courses, and seminars 
• Adherence to the Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice set by your regulatory body 
   

CDI College prepares you for a lifelong career by emphasizing professionalism, reflection, and continuous learning. 

How Long Does It Take to Become an RECE? 

Program duration depends on the type of credential: 

 
CDI College’s accelerated 44-week ECE certificate program allows students to enter the workforce quickly without compromising quality or practical experience. 

What Are the Qualifications Required? 
 

To summarize, here are the typical qualifications for becoming an RECE: 
 

✅ High school diploma or GED 

✅ Completion of a recognized ECE program (like the one at CDI College) 

✅ Provincial certification or registration 

✅ First Aid & CPR/AED Level B certification 

✅ Experience through practicum or work placements 

✅ Strong communication and interpersonal skills 

✅ Commitment to ongoing learning 

Why Choose CDI College? 

At CDI College, the Early Childhood Education Certificate program is designed to provide comprehensive training, practical experience, and career support. Here’s why it stands out: 
 

✔️ Approved Curriculum 

The program is officially approved by the ECE Registry of British Columbia and Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Training making it an ideal choice for those seeking BC certification. 
 

✔️ Extensive Practicum 

With over 410 hours of real-world practicum, students apply theory in supervised childcare settings building the confidence and experience employers look for. 
 

✔️ Accelerated Format 

Complete your training in just 44 weeks, so you can start your new career sooner. 
 

✔️ Additional Certifications 

Students earn Emergency Child Care First Aid & CPR/AED Level B, which is often a requirement for employment in childcare environments. 
 

✔️ Career Readiness 

Graduates are qualified for roles such as: 
 

• Early Childhood Educator 
• Daycare Supervisor 
• Preschool Assistant 
• Childcare Center Administrator 
• Special Needs Support Worker 
   

CDI College also supports those interested in opening and managing their own daycare centers. 

Final Thoughts: Your Future Starts Now 

Choosing to become a Registered Early Childhood Educator is more than just picking up a profession, it’s answering a call. It’s about guiding children through the most critical years of their development and making a real impact on their lives. 
 

If you're ready to take the first step, CDI College’s Early Childhood Education Certificate program offers the education, experience, and mentorship you need to succeed in this field of education. 

Make a difference in the lives of children and shape your own future at the same time. Start your path to becoming a Registered Early Childhood Educator in Canada with CDI College.