Jump Start -- by Mark Sproxton

Decisions, decisions, decisions. With the large number of opportunities available to work with children, determining which area to move into, may be a tough. Luckily, there are dozens of training and educational opportunities available to pursue a path that best meets your aptitudes, interests, and abilities. Here's a look at just some of the programs available in the area that can lead to work with children.

For those looking at entry level positions in the field of child care, a one-day babysitting course is available through St. John's Ambulance. St. John's Ambulance also offers a more in-depth child care and infant CPR (cardio pulmonary resuscitation) course. Call 250-2922 for more information.

Through the Calgary Board of Education's Community and Continuing Education programs, a babysitter safety course is regularly offered. Look for the program guides at free-distribution magazine racks around town, or call 777-7200.

A one-year Child Care Certificate, and a two-year Child Care Diploma, is available through Mount Royal College.

Lethbridge Community College offers a one-year certificate program, and a two-year diploma program in Early Childhood Education. These programs are also available through distance education.

Red Deer College also offers a one-year certificate program and a two-year diploma program in Early Childhood Development (this will require downloading Adobe Acrobat Reader)that are available through distance education.

The Career College (Calgary) offers a 835 hour (including practicum) program in Early Childhood Development.

Continuing with child care, Bow Valley College offers a School Age Child Care Certificate.

Those interested in the social work aspects of child care have many options available through the University of Calgary's Social Work department which offers bachelor, masters and PhD studies.

Also at the University of Calgary, those interested in psychology can earn bachelor degree, and move to graduate programs leading to MSc and PhD degrees in many areas of experimental psychology. A Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology is available as well.

Anyone wanting to follow the medical/psychological stream should check the University of Calgary's Psychiatry department.

Many volunteer opportunities also exist for anyone uncertain of working in the field. Check out theHot Tip section for more details.