About the Role
Keepers of the Circle is looking for an individual who understands child development and who recognizes the importance of providing programs and services within an Indigenous cultural context in a manner that instills a sense of confidence and pride in each child.
The Early Childhood Educator Assistant (ECEA) will assist the Registered Early Childhood Educator (RECE) in developing and providing a quality early learning and child care program which meets the needs of the children and is in line with the requirements of the CCEYA, and the document ‘How Does Learning Happen?’.
The ECEA will work co-operatively with Educators and professionals to provide an environment that nurtures, stimulates and guides each child’s development through a holistic approach to the care and development of children.
The ECEA will ensure that services are provided in a safe, caring and culturally appropriate environment as directed through policy approved by the Temiskaming Native Women's Support Group Board of Directors and our Wisdom Keepers.
The Early Childhood Educator Assistant will be report to to the Childcare Supervisor.
Roles and Responsibilities of an Early Childhood Educator Assistant include:
- Provide cultural teachings through language, ceremonies, gatherings, stories, music, games, arts and crafts, as well as land-based experiences.
- Respect the diversity of cultural beliefs of the children and families they are working with.
- Provide families with cultural learning opportunities which align with the document ‘How Does Learning Happen?’, and supports the Four Foundations of Learning as follows:
- Promote and celebrate Indigenous culture and language
- Support positive and responsive interactions among the children, families, Wisdom Keepers, educators and staff by creating a welcoming classroom environment
- Work cooperatively, ethically and respectfully with other educators, and support each other’s professional development
- Promote the health, safety and well-being of each child, by attending to the needs of the children throughout the day (bathroom breaks, snacks and mealtimes, cleanliness etc.), and maintaining the cleanliness and sanitation of all areas used by children
- Provide safe and appropriate supervision of children based on age, development and environment
- Work in partnership with children, families and colleagues to create a safe, healthy and inviting environment that promotes a sense of belonging, well-being and inclusion’
- Participate with children as a co-investigator, co-learner, and co-planner
- Connect with families and communities and invite their participation to ensure that environments and experiences reflect and are relevant to children’s everyday lives
- Communicate with families using a wide variety of communication methods
- Work with families, educators, staff and professionals to problem-solve together for the best interest of the child
- Teach according to the Seven Grandfather Teachings, and encourage children and families to respect these teachings
- Practice and learn the language to incorporate it into the classroom
- Work with families and community members to find ways to support and enrich the transmission of language and culture
- Support children’s different cues and ways of communicating
- Work towards required professional certifications and CECE registration
- Participate in professional workshops and courses
- Maintain confidentiality
- Bring forward parental issues of importance to the RECE and/or Supervisor where indicated
- Model professional values, beliefs and behaviors with children, families and colleagues
- Support and assist the RECE in all aspects of the development and implementation of a holistic program that aligns with the CCEYA
Skills and Requirements:
- Current Level C CPR/First Aid certificate
- Relevant experience working with children
- Knowledge of Indigenous traditions, cultures, languages and First Nation communities within Temiskaming and Kirkland Lake; with an understanding of cultural diversity, variations of lifestyles and individual aspirations.
- Understanding of the unique dimensions of the Indigenous child, family and community; including parenting styles and provision of parenting by the community
- Recognition of the importance of Indigenous language in early childhood development and a willingness to become fluent
- Advocacy skills in working with Indigenous children and their families
- Skilled in working with the Indigenous community, including planning and participating in cultural celebrations and community events.
- Well-developed communication skills
- Good public relations skills, to maintain a strong focus on the child and their family and to build positive relationships
- Ability to interact comfortably and empathetically with people from diverse backgrounds.
- Ability to plan and efficiently organize time and prioritize tasks
- Ability to develop options, solve problems and be flexible as required
- Community-minded
- Creative and open attitude “thinking outside the box”
- Highest respect for Indigenous values and traditions
- Able to work cooperatively as a team member
- Ability to accept guidance from others
- Ability and desire to participate in professional learning and career development
Inclusion, Diversity, Equity & Accessibility
We advocate for the presence and contributions of all people regardless of ability, age, cultural background, education, ethnic origin, gender expression, gender identity, immigration status, language, marital status, nationality, physical appearance, political affiliations, perspective, race, religion, sexual orientation, sexuality, family status, socioeconomic status, or other such considerations, and intersectionality's therein. As an Indigenous organization, Keepers of the Circle has an affirmative action policy that prioritizes the hiring of Indigenous Peoples and community affiliates. We encourage Indigenous and affiliate applicants to indicate this in their cover letter. Please let us know of any specific requirements during the application process by emailing hr@keepersofthecircle.com – we are happy to work with you on accommodation requests.
How to Apply
Interested applicants are encouraged to send in their resume and cover letter to Ashley Ellerton, RECE Childcare Supervisor by email: a.ellerton@keepersofthecircle.com