Early Learning Facilitator

Since 1953, Empower Simcoe has specialized in providing a wide range of programs and services for people and families throughout Simcoe County. We are looking for innovative, passionate, and dedicated employees. Our inclusive culture empowers all of us to Be, Belong and Thrive. If you are looking for a career where you can make a difference and feel proud of the work you do everyday, you've come to the right place. Your future starts now at Empower Simcoe!

We are recruiting for a permanent full-time Early Learning Facilitator to support both the Ontario Autism Program (OAP) Entry to School and the EarlyON Child and Family Centre programs operated by Empower Simcoe. Using a child and family centred, collaborative approach to service delivery, this role prepares children with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) diagnosis to transition successfully to school. This position supports the child to experience success in a classroom environment by providing opportunities and teaching that build skills to optimize school success. Facilitators will contribute to the development of an Integrated Individual Education and Family Service Plan that is reflective of the families' visions and goals and is inclusive of all Early Intervention partners working with the child.

Working as part of a team, this position is responsible for the daily operation of our EarlyON Child and Family Centres and/or Satellite Centres. This includes providing age appropriate programming for children age 0 � 6 and parent education, including workshops, information and referral.

Compensation Package:

• Work up to 37.5 hours per week;
• Minimum starting rate of pay is $28.73 per hour;
• 11 paid statutory holidays;
• Employer paid confidential employee assistance program for you and your family members;

Following the successful completion of a 3-month probationary period:

• Employer paid benefits (life insurance, short- and long-term disability benefits, health and dental);
• Group RRSP plan with Employer matched benefit up to 5% of gross earnings biweekly;
• Employer paid sick, personal leave and vacation hours.

Minimum requirements of these positions include :

• Early Childhood Education diploma or degree, or an equivalent of education and experience as deemed acceptable by the employer, ensuring the program is recognized by the College of Early Childhood Educators;
• Must be a registered member of the College of Early Childhood Educators in good standing;
• A minimum of two years' experience working with families and their children; working with children who have a diagnosis of ASD; and working with community partners in the Early Learning sector and school professionals;
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, demonstrating sound judgement, diplomacy, tact and listening skills;
• Ability to determine child and family strengths through the use of various assessment tools;
• Understanding of and ability to apply current Ministry of Education pedagogical practices and policy, with awareness of the Child Care and Early Years Act, 2014;
• Applicants who are bilingual in French, Spanish, Portuguese, Tamil or Urdu are preferred;

Special factors of this position:

• Must be prepared to work flexible hours as required;
• Must have a valid Class G driver's License and own reliable transportation;
• Must maintain specific certifications and licenses/memberships pertaining to areas of expertise (e.g.: membership in the Ontario College of Social Workers, or E.C.E., etc.);
• Willingness to travel to various service sites;

Duties and responsibilities (including, but not limited to) :

• Working collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team to implement delivery of the Entry to School program through the OAP;
• Preparing program plans that include play and inquiry-based learning opportunities and acknowledging that all children are competent, capable of complex thinking, curious and rich in potential;
• Ensuring programs foster belonging, well-being, engagement and expression for all children, parents, and caregivers;
• Planning individual and group-based activities that promote development across all developmental domains;
• Assisting children to develop independence in self-care routines;
• Engaging in conversations with parents and caregivers about child development, parenting, nutrition, play, and inquiry based learning and other topics that support their role;
• Providing targeted outreach opportunities designed for specific populations such as newcomers, teen parents, families experiencing income challenges, Grand families, families supported by child protection etc.;
• Completing all assessments, checklists and documentation in an effective and timely manner.

Empower Simcoe is committed to a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace where everyone feels respected and valued. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation or disability. Applications are encouraged from those who reflect the diversity of our community.