Since it's founding in 1997, the CYC-Net discussion group has been asked thousands of questions. These questions often generate many replies from people in all spheres of the Child and Youth Care profession and contain personal experiences, viewpoints, as well as recommended resources.
Below are some of the threads of discussions on varying Child and Youth Care related topics.
Questions and Responses have been reproduced verbatim.
Listen to thisHello,
I am currently majoring in Child and Youth Care Counselling in a Bachelor of Child Studies degree. I am in my second year and absolutely love the field and this program. I am currently in my second practicum and am placed in a elementary school that works with children with special needs.
I am wondering, from your professional experiences, how difficult it may be to find work in a school setting as a CYCC once I graduate? I hear so many people talking about their work in residential and community settings, I am wondering if it is unrealistic for me to get a job in that setting without having a BofPsych, or a BofEd degree?
Hearing any stories from anyone who currently works in a school setting with a background in Child and Youth Care would be very helpful!
Thank you for taking the time to read this email,
Hayley McComish
...
Hayley,
To keep it short and sweet....
I did my second year placement at the W. Ross MacDonald School for the Blind in Brantford, ON.
It was amazing.
My supervisor was a graduate of CYW, George Brown, saw a posting for Behavioural Consultant at W. Ross and thought “why not” in regards to applying.
She got it and has been there ever since.
Go for it.
Volunteer, take certificate courses (MHFA, Autism Intervener....etc.) and never underestimate the power of will and desire. Employers like to know that their employees, or potential employees just really love their work and really mean it.
All the best!
Ally
...
Hey,
I have my diploma in Child and Youth Care counselling, completed my second year practicum in a school setting and got hired on from there. Often, bigger agencies that have intensive treatment programs attached to them have schools as well. In Calgary, Hull Homes, and Woods Homes are two examples... Each of these have a teacher and counsellor in each classroom. I've been there ten years and have no regrets!
Erin
