Early Childhood Educator (NOC 42202)

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.