Early Childhood Educator (NOC 42202)
Early Learning at the Gardens
Location: Whitehorse, Yukon
Position Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Hours: 7.5 hours per day, Monday–Friday
Wage: $22.63–$33.82 per hour (based on Yukon Early Childhood Educator Level 1–3 certification, qualifications, and experience)
About Early Learning at the Gardens
Early Learning at the Gardens is a child-centered, nature-inspired early learning program dedicated to providing high-quality care and education for young children. We believe children learn best through play, exploration, meaningful relationships, and hands-on experiences. Our program is guided by emergent curriculum principles and focuses on creating a welcoming, inclusive, and engaging environment where every child can thrive.
We are seeking a dedicated, enthusiastic, and experienced Early Childhood Educator who is passionate about supporting children's development and fostering a positive learning environment.
Position Summary
The Early Childhood Educator will be responsible for planning and implementing a high-quality early learning program that supports children's social, emotional, physical, cognitive, and language development. The successful candidate will work collaboratively with children, families, and fellow educators to create a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment that reflects current best practices in early childhood education.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide quality care, supervision, and guidance for children in accordance with Yukon Child Care Regulations and licensing requirements.
- Develop and implement engaging learning experiences based on children's interests, strengths, and developmental needs.
- Utilize emergent curriculum practices to support child-led learning and inquiry.
- Support children's self-regulation, emotional development, and social competence through positive guidance strategies.
- Foster an inclusive environment that respects diversity and promotes a sense of belonging.
- Observe, document, and assess children's development and learning.
- Maintain accurate records, observations, and documentation as required.
- Establish and maintain positive relationships with families through ongoing communication and collaboration.
- Participate in daily routines including mealtimes, outdoor play, rest periods, transitions, and personal care routines.
- Ensure classrooms, materials, and outdoor learning environments are safe, clean, and well organized.
- Participate in staff meetings, professional development opportunities, and program planning.
- Work collaboratively as part of a team to support program goals and maintain a positive workplace culture.
- Follow all health, safety, and child protection policies and procedures.
Required Qualifications
- Yukon Early Childhood Educator Certification (Level 1, 2, or 3) or eligibility to obtain certification.
- Minimum one (1) year of experience implementing the Wee Thinkers program within an early learning or childcare setting.
- Minimum one (1) year of experience planning and implementing emergent curriculum.
- Demonstrated familiarity with the My Brain Books series and the ability to incorporate concepts into classroom practices.
- Minimum one (1) year of experience working with children in a licensed early learning or childcare environment.
- Current First Aid and CPR Certification (or willingness to obtain prior to employment).
- Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Screening.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively within a team environment.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in nature-based or outdoor learning programs.
- Experience supporting children with diverse developmental needs.
- Knowledge of child development and positive behaviour guidance strategies.
- Training in social-emotional learning, self-regulation, or trauma-informed practices.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Strong understanding of child development and early learning principles.
- Ability to build positive and respectful relationships with children and families.
- Strong observation, documentation, and planning skills.
- Ability to adapt programming based on children's interests and emerging needs.
- Excellent organizational and time-management skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
- Commitment to ongoing professional growth and reflective practice.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to actively engage with children indoors and outdoors in all seasons.
- Ability to lift up to 40 lbs when required.
- Ability to bend, kneel, sit on the floor, and participate in active play throughout the day.
- Ability to supervise children during walks, outdoor excursions, and nature-based activities.
How to Apply
Please submit a resume and cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email protected]
We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
Early Learning at the Gardens is committed to creating an inclusive workplace and welcomes applications from qualified individuals of all backgrounds.
Pay: $22.63-$33.83 per hour
Work Location: In person
