EARLY CHILDHOOD ASSISTANT (ECA)
Location: Prime Time Nursery School, Midland, Ontario
Position Type: Part-Time / Supply
Reports To: Registered Early Childhood Educator (RECE) / Supervisor
Position Summary
The Early Childhood Assistant (ECA) supports the delivery of a high-quality, inclusive early learning program for children in a licensed child care setting. Working under the direction of a Registered Early Childhood Educator (RECE), the ECA contributes to a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment in accordance with the Child Care and Early Years Act, 2014 (CCEYA) and the guiding principles of How Does Learning Happen? Ontario’s Pedagogy for the Early Years.
The ECA helps foster children’s sense of Belonging, Well-Being, Engagement, and Expression through responsive, play-based interactions.
Key Responsibilities
Support for Child Development and Learning
- Assist RECEs in planning and implementing play-based, emergent learning experiences.
- Engage with children in meaningful play that supports curiosity, creativity, and exploration.
- Support children’s social-emotional development through warm, responsive interactions.
- Promote inclusion and positive guidance strategies that respect each child’s individuality.
- Help create an environment that reflects children’s interests, identities, and cultures.
Health, Safety, and Supervision
- Supervise children at all times in accordance with CCEYA ratios and centre policies.
- Maintain a safe, clean, and organized indoor and outdoor environment.
- Follow all health and safety procedures.
- Report hazards, incidents, and concerns to the RECE or Supervisor.
- Support routines such as transitions, rest time, meals, and outdoor play.
- Complete diapering/toileting routine following procedure set out by SMDHU
Team Collaboration
- Work collaboratively with RECEs and other team members to support program goals.
- Follow direction from supervising RECEs regarding programming and classroom expectations.
- Participate in staff meetings, training, and professional learning opportunities.
- Maintain respectful, positive communication with colleagues.
Family and Community Engagement
- Communicate respectfully and professionally with families as directed by the RECE or Supervisor.
- Support a welcoming and inclusive environment for all families.
- Maintain confidentiality at all times in accordance with licensing and centre policy.
Program Support and Environment
- Assist in preparing and maintaining learning environments and materials.
- Support documentation by helping gather observations and examples of children’s learning when requested.
- Help maintain organization of classroom materials, equipment, and learning spaces.
- Support smooth daily routines and transitions for children.
Qualifications
Required:
- Intermediate First Aid and CPR-C certification (or willingness to obtain prior to employment).
- Clear Vulnerable Sector Check (or ability to obtain)
- Up-to-date immunization records as required by centre policy.
Preferred:
- Experience working with children in a licensed child care or educational setting.
- Familiarity with Child Care and Early Years Act (CCEYA), How Does Learning Happen? and play-based learning approaches.
- Strong written and verbal communication and teamwork skills.
- Confidence leading simple group songs and interactive circle time.
Working Conditions
- Active role requires standing, walking, bending, lifting, and outdoor supervision in all weather conditions.
- Ability to lift up to approximately 40 lbs (18 kg) when needed.
- Fast-paced environment with shifting priorities based on children’s needs.
Core Competencies
- Child-centred and responsive practice
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Positive guidance and relationship building
- Safety awareness and accountability
- Flexibility and adaptability
- Commitment to inclusion, diversity, equity, and belonging
Statement of Commitment
We believe that children are competent, capable, curious, and rich in potential. The Early Childhood Assistant plays an essential role in supporting environments where children experience belonging, well-being, engagement, and expression. We are committed to providing an inclusive, respectful, and safe learning environment for all children, families, and staff.
Pay: From $21.31 per hour
Benefits:
Work Location: In person
