Hey folks,
Most of your queries can be answered in the cic's website if you look through their pages. Follow this link and first read everything relevant to the process.
http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/immigrate/skilled/apply-how.asp
Proof of funds: CIC says you can provide either a bank certification letter, or a latest statement showing the total funds available. It does not require monthly statements initially but might ask for it later (usually of 6 months). If you can, it's best to send the 6 months history right at the beginning, but it's not required. CIC says it has to be recent, but doesn't specify how recent. I would try to get it as fresh as possible.
Birth certificate: CIC says birth certificates are compulsory, but I have heard from some people that in case you can't get a birth certificate, school certificates that shows birth date are acceptable too (this is very dicey). If I were you, I would try to get a birth certificate.