Child Development Institute·Toronto, Ontario
The Early Childhood Assistant will support the Registered Early Childhood Educator in implementing children's programs and maintaining a safe, nurturing environment. Responsibilities include supervising children, documenting developmental observations, and assisting with daily classroom routines and housekeeping tasks.
Posting Date April 28, 2026
Children are at the front and centre of what we do; they are the foundation of our purpose and the basis for our evidence-driven strategy.
Our mission is to transform the lives of children, youth and their families by developing and delivering innovative, research-based mental health and early learning programs.
At the Child Development Institute (CDI), we are passionate about helping our communities’ most vulnerable members and their caregivers.
It motivates each of us to face what can be difficult situations while continuously finding the purest joy in play, in silence, in advice, and in the unbelievable strength and resilience of our young clients.
Joining us now is a rewarding opportunity to be part of an organization that is built on a legacy of more than 100 years of helping children and families.
Recognized as a leader and model for measurement-based impact, we are client-centred, family-centred, and data-informed.
We are a place where professionals grounded in mental health, care, and well-being of infants, children and youth, come together in collaboration, learning and inclusion.
As a multiservice organization delivering social, emotional, and behavioural counselling services, early childhood education, learning disabilities and mental health services, and family violence services, we address the whole person from when they begin their life.
Every child and family that reaches out to us is unique, and we value and embrace their individuality.
We deliver the tailored support and tools they need to build life-long skills, positive mental health, and resilience.
With their trust in us, we guide children and families along a supportive journey.
It is an often difficult path and simultaneously the most rewarding experience for providers, children and families.
Along with providing a safe and nurturing environment the ECA with the guidance of the RECE will assist in the implementation of the children’s program. The ECA should be aware of and understand the developmental requirements for the age group they are working with. The Child Care and Early Years Act (CCEYA) Toronto Children’s Service- Assessment for Quality Improvement (AQI), Toronto Public Health (TPH) and ‘How Does Learning happen?’, Ontario pedagogy for the Early years. To work in a team teaching environment under the direction of ELC Director and the Registered Early Childhood Educator.
Who we need
The CDI, Early Learning Centre is seeking 1(one) knowledgeable and competent Early Childhood Assistant to join our Wellesley ELC Team for the Floater Position for 18 months contract. Along with providing a safe and nurturing environment the incumbent with the guidance of the RECE will assist in the implementation of the children’s program for the age group they are working with.
This is a 25-hour weekly(5-hour per day), on-site, daytime position, working M-F, shifts may vary from 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m..
Shift and room assignments are assigned according to Centre needs and subject to change as necessary.
Must be willing to work with all age groups and be flexible to accommodate operational needs, such as supporting lunch service, cleaning tables, setting up cots for nap time, assisting with wake up routine, relieving and covering breaks, and supporting the escorting of children up and down stairs where applicable.
As our new Early Childhood Assistant, you will: Supervision of children in a safe and healthy environment.
Update attendance throughout the day.
Conduct consistent headcount during all indoors and outdoors transition of children.
Assist the RECE in preparing and setting up program activities.
Assist with brief observations notes on individual child/children behavior and responses to assist the RECE in tracking the children’s developmental needs.
Extend a warm welcome to families at all times.
Maintain positive and professional relationships with parents, families, peers and visitors to the childcare program.
Assists in establishing the daily routines and schedules, provide guidance and consistency in following routines and schedule for the children.
Ensures consistent behaviour guidance and management are being followed, which supports the ELC Behaviour Guidance Policy.
Discuss and provide brief notes of your observations with team teacher which will be included in program plans activities and children’s learning experiences.
Assists in the day-to-day functions of the classroom in accordance with the CCEYA, AQI and TPH.
Ensure the room is organized at all times; toys and equipment, etc...
Help older children to be responsible for cleanup, work with placement students to label and organize.
Maintains records, copies of program plans, daily care information and other documentation as required by the ELC director and legislated standards.
Assists with opening and closing of the Centre as long an RECE is on staff.
Participates regularly in supervision as required by agency policy.
Pursues professional development through training sessions and literature.
Provides housekeeping duties as assigned by the ELC Director.
Responsible for reporting any signs of child abuse to Children Aid Society.
Other Requirements All applicants are advised that offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of a Vulnerable Sector Check. Credential verifications & References required.
If you're excited about this role but your experience aligns differently with every requirement, we encourage you to apply. While specific qualifications are strictly required, others can be based on various experiences, backgrounds, and knowledge. We can't promise an interview, but we will consider your whole application.
CDI is firmly committed to diversity within its community and welcomes applications from racialized persons/persons of colour, Indigenous People of North America and the world, persons with disabilities, 2SLGBTQIA+ persons, and those who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas. We are committed to providing equitable opportunities in employment and to providing a workplace which is free from discrimination and harassment. We are equally committed to providing an inclusive and accessible workplace. If you require accommodations, please reach out to us at careers@childdevelop.ca.
Candidates must hold an Early Childhood Assistant certificate, equivalent experience, or be currently enrolled in an ECE program. A valid Standard First Aid Certificate and the ability to pass a Vulnerable Sector Check are also required.
Inform ELC Director, in a timely manner and team members of children’s illnesses, injuries (with correct documentation) and absenteeism.
Any other duties as assigned.
What you bring: Early Childhood Assistant certificate, equivalent experience, or currently enrolled in an ECE program Valid Standard First Aid Certificate Skills, Attributes and Abilities Strong customer service capability; with experience in developing and maintaining positive relations with parents, families, peers and guests.
Be a dedicated and flexible team player able to interact with team members, and colleagues at all levels of the agency.
Demonstrated ability to work in a respectful and aware manner with groups from diverse background and experiences and socio-economic status.
May require flexible hours.
Workplace Environment Governed by concurrent and dynamic deadlines, despite conflicting priorities and frequent interruptions.
Fast-paced work environment.
Interacts with students, teachers, administration, family members, visitors, government agencies/personnel under all circumstances.
Physical Effort Regular to frequent requirement, and as needed, to lift children (up to 45 lbs.), including bending, stooping, stretching, squatting, pushing and pulling, and sitting and walking, climbing stairs.
Noise level can be moderate to loud.
Intermittent physical activity including walking, standing, sitting, lifting and supporting students.
Working Conditions Governed by concurrent and dynamic deadlines, despite conflicting priorities and frequent interruptions.
Fast-paced work environment.
Interacts with students, teachers, administration, family members, visitors, government agencies/personnel under all circumstances.
Market context
Behavioral-health roles in Ontario often see steady demand in schools, community agencies, and youth-serving programs, especially for candidates with child and youth support experience. These positions can be competitive because employers look for a CYW diploma, facilitation skills, reliable transportation, and clear screening eligibility; the listed requirements and benefits here are AI-summarized from the original posting to save you research time. If you are considering applying, confirm your experience matches the setting and gather documents for the Vulnerable Sector Check early.
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