Education Certificate programs are short-term training programs which prepare people to work with children and families.  Professionals in this field provide experiences and interactions that promote safe, healthy learning environments for children, and assistance for families.  In an age when an increasing number of parents are working outside the home, finding an environment in which children will receive more than basic maintenance has grown in importance.  Families, too, need assistance as they struggle to cope with jobs and home responsibilities. Thus the need for professional childcare and paraprofessional workers has become essential.